Finally, we can begin to install Windows 7 RC:

1. If you haven't yet downloaded it, get Windows 7 RC now and write the iso file to a DVD.
2. In Windows XP or Vista, insert the DVD in your drive.
3. A window will pop up after a while. Click on "Install now".
4. The setup process will now start up.
5. Setup will copy some temporary files onto your computer and then ask you whether you want to get important updates. Choose the option that suits you.
6. Read the licence agreement on the next page and accept the terms.
7. On the next step you'll be prompted whether you want to replace the existing operating system or install on another partition (Custom). Select the "Custom" option.
8. Now Setup will ask you on which drive you want to install it. Select the new partition that you created (if you're unsure, it will be the one with the file size that you specified during partitioning — e.g. 25GB if you followed my advice).
9. Click on "Next".
10. Windows 7 RC will now begin installation and your computer will restart a couple of times.
11. VERY NB: do not touch your computer until you get to the point where it starts asking you for more information — during the reboot phases Windows 7 RC will automatically pick up from where it left off so you don't have to press Enter or choose from boot options during this stage.
12. After it has finished installing, Windows 7 RC will ask you for your product key.
13. Make sure the box next to "Automatically activate Windows when I'm online" is ticked and click "Next".

When installation has finished, you can explore Windows 7 RC as much as you want. When you start your computer up in the future, you will be able to select between Windows 7 RC and an older version of Windows (your XP/Vista installation on the other partition) so you'll still be able to boot up your current Windows installation too.

And that's it — enjoy!

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