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Finally, Microsoft gives Vista SP1 RC green flag for public consumption. Yesterday they officially posted the Release Candidate of Vista SP1.

According to Microsoft the installation may take around an hour to completely, so make sure you have plenty non computer related work before jumping for the installation. But many websites and blogs have reported the installation doesn’t takes more then 10 to 20 mins. I’m not able to comment as i haven’t personally tested it, but friends I’ll give my opinion as soon as i download and install it in coming days.

Word of caution, for those who are running Vista illegally via an OEM BIOS hack, it won’t work in Vista SP1 RC, hah…… when did something from Microsoft became uncrackable. Also the new WGA might be a pain in the ass, the WGA app will scan the PC for pirated version of Vista. Users found with a pirated version will see their desktop wallpaper turning black and each time the user logs in they will be promoted with nag screens to buy the legitimate versions of Vista, besides each hour a bubble will appear reminding you to buy the OS.

In coming days I’ll post up a review on the performance and stability, SP1 RC brings to Vista. As for now you can download Vista SP1 RC yourself the self extracting executable and see for yourself. But the most recommended way to download is via Windows Update as it account for the smallest available download. The standalone downloads are 400MB+ so make sure you have a decent connection before clicking the download link. Here are the available standalone downloads for the 32-bit and 64-bit machines.

• 5 Language Standalone Package
  • x86 download (32-bit)
  • x64 download (64-bit)
• All Language Standalone Package
  • x86 download (32-bit)
  • x64 download (64-bit)

Pranjal