Windows Vista Beta 2 will no longer be available for download from Microsoft's site starting this weekend, said a representative of the Redmond Company. Those who still want to test the operating system and implicitly to partake in the Beta program for Vista can do so only until the end of this day. The announcement comes as a confirmation that Microsoft has reached the cut-off point of beta testers in the Customer Preview Program and that will consequently stop the downloads and mail orders.

"In case you weren't aware, we are only providing a limited number of copies of Windows Vista Beta 2 - either download or physical copies - and we're fast approaching the cut-off point. What this means is - if you want to get a copy, get it now. Visit Microsoft.com and either download or order. Because we will be withdrawing access very soon," wrote Ian Moulster, Microsoft platform product manager in his blog.

Microsoft customers are advised to enter the program while they still can, because all downloads and orders that predate the cut-off will be honored until at least July 14th. Furthermore users are recommended to obtain a product key and to activate their Vista copy in order to benefit from additional related content.

Vista Beta 2 will continue to be available for download from other authorized and unauthorized sources but Microsoft will no longer offer product key or activation support.