14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft released the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 installation software feature update just a couple of days ago, and users should make sure to deploy the refresh in order to make sure that installation tasks will go as smooth as possible.
Customers can also check out KB976902, the knowledge base article that is accompanying the update in order to get an idea of what the refresh is all about.
They’re bound not to miss Microsoft’s reference related to service pack deployments, and in this regard, Windows 7 SP1 will undoubtedly come to mind.
“This software update will be a prerequisite to install service packs. Additionally, this update improves reliability when you install or remove Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 updates and service packs,” the Redmond company states.
But users shouldn’t read too much into the release of the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 installation software feature update.
I wouldn’t really jump to the conclusion that the general availability of Windows 7 SP1 RTM is just around the corner, for example.
Fact is that this is the fourth revision of the update, and the software giant has been re-releasing it for quite some time now.
Sure enough, the update is designed to get the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 platforms ready for the installation of upgrades, but is in no way limited to the deployment of service packs, as the Redmond company explains.
“Updates to the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 installation software are included in this update.
“The installation software is the component that handles the installation and the removal of software updates, language packs, optional Windows features, and service packs.
“This update is necessary to successfully install and to remove any service packs to all versions of Windows 7 and on Windows Server 2008 R2,” Microsoft notes.
Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Release Candidate (RC) Build 7601.17105.100929-1730 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Release Candidate (RC) Build 7601.17105.100929-1730 are available for download here. Get the update from the the Microsoft Download Center:
Download the Windows 7, 32-bit editions package now.
Download the Windows 7, 64-bit editions package now.
Download the Windows Server 2008 R2, 64-bit Editions package now.
Download the Windows Server 2008 R2, IA-64-bit Editions package now.
Download the Windows Embedded Standard 7, 32-bit editions package now.
Download the Windows Embedded Standard 7, 64-bit editions package now.