Windows Vista

Microsoft is handing out free copies of Windows Vista Business Edition to those who choose to sit through three videos. You can also get Microsoft Office Professional 2007 for free. It's all part of their Power Together campaign aimed toward for IT professionals, but PC gamers will benefit from a free license because it comes DirectX 10 support.

It's not surprising that the site is running at a painfully slow rate right now. But if you're determined and you have a computer that can handle the steep requirements of Vista, you may be able to play next generation PC games for a lot less.

Microsoft recently unleashed the second Beta version of Windows Vista--this time on the unsuspecting public rather than just developers. The Windows Vista Customer Preview Program allows you, me, your uncle, and everyone with a punchy PC to get a sneak peak at what Microsoft will offer with the next version of Windows. But getting involved with beta software can be risky; especially when you're talking about this operating system that is (as of now) rather unstable. You may not have the time or the guts to give Vista a try yourself--but I sure do.