Windows 8 final version leaked to torrent already

Windows 8 RTM was released just a few days ago and its arrived on the world’s network of file sharing and torrent sites already. The version of Windows in question is the Windows 8 Enterprise N package.

“It looks like our first leak has occurred, as Windows 8 Enterprise N has appeared on torrenting sites and has been confirmed by several that it’s the real deal,” said winbeta.org in a post earlier today.

According to Microsoft’s release schedule the first downloads of any form of Windows 8 aren’t due until August the 15th:

• August 15: Developers will be able to download the final version of Windows 8 via their MSDN subscription.
• August 15: IT professionals testing Windows 8 in organizations will be able to access the final version of Windows 8 through their TechNet subscription.
• August 16: Customers with existing Microsoft Software Assurance for Windows will be able to download Windows 8 Enterprise edition through the Volume License Service Center (VLSC), allowing them to test, pilot, and begin adopting Windows 8 Enterprise within their organization.
• August 16: Microsoft Partner Network members will have access to Windows 8.
• August 20: Microsoft Action Pack Providers (MAPS) receive access to Windows 8.
• September 1: Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to purchase Windows 8 through Microsoft Volume License Resellers.

Microsoft always encourages users to download it from their sites for a couple of reasons. The first obviously being that you would have to own a legitimate copy to do it that way, the second because who knows what a torrent “contributor” might decide to add to the Windows 8 torrents uploaded to the web. Some Torrents are renowned for being packed full of malware, spyware and often serious viruses, so all we can say is sometimes you get more than you bargain for with “free stuff”.

Microsoft declined to comment on the leak, but one thing is sure, they definitely will not be at all surprised. In fact as of late Microsoft seems to have been relatively contempt with piracy arguing people pirating Windows mean they still use Windows which is good for Microsoft’s reputation.

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