Windows 7 RTM expiration?

[KayGee]

Sorry for the noobish question and if it has been asked previously. Would I have to upgrade my copy of Windows 7 RTM when the retail version is released in October? Basically, will the installed RTM copy be exactly the same as the installed retail version, say, 3 years from now, with all the necessary hotfixes, service packs, etc. that will be released eventually. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Lepard]

RTM = Retail release

 

[Rhonda the Sly]

No, the RTM version of Windows 7 does not have an expiration date. It does, however, follow the Windows life-cycle policy, it will be dropped from mainstream support on January 13, 2015. At this date it will only receive security updates until end-of-life. Windows 7 RTM should never the experience periodic shutdown behavior that associated with the Beta and RC unless it becomes unlicensed.

 

[corkyg]

No expiration date. The actual installed OS does not say "RTM." That is simply a logistical designator. It is actually Windows 7 Build 7600 according to Belarc. It is in effect the retail version.

 

[KayGee]

Thanks guys. It's a legit MSDN copy with a serial number, so I guess I should be okay till 2015.

 

[rockyct]

Yeah, RTM stands for "release to manufacturing." There's a time gap between RTM and the official release so hardware companies can work out any final problems and get ready to install it on their computers to sell.