Microsoft announced today Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista Service Pack 1 are ready and Released to Manufacturers. (RTM)  The bits have been finalized, the teams have all signed off and the manufacturing plants are beginning production of the media that will be in stores after the worldwide launch events.

Build information

Ever since I found out how to determine the version of Windows Server 2008 builds I went curious on the final build number. Now that the build is final I can clearly say Windows Server 2008 is v. 744, which means the complete version number is 6.0.6001.17128

The Process

If you're interested in the process behind shipping Windows Server 2008, you might be interested in the interview with Alex Hinrichs on Channel 9. Alex Hinrichs is the Project Manager for Windows Server 2008 and was responsible for coordinating the project.

Availability

If you can't wait to deploy the final bits in your production environments you need to know how to get your hands on the media and product keys. I've discussed the various ways to get your hands on Windows Server 2008, not including the IT Pro Momentum program since it was more recently introduced.

Technet and MSDN subscribers

TechNet and MSDN subscribers can already download the English, German, French, Spanish and Japanese versions of Windows Server 2008. Available flavors are the Standard, Enterprise and Datacenter Editions of Windows Server 2008 x64. Other versions are coming soon…

Technet event visitors

Visitors to the major Windows Server 2008 events in the coming months can expect to receive RTM media and 180 day trial productkeys. When you're living in the Netherlands or interested in attending the Dutch Launch event, you can look forward to receiving a fully functional non-timebombed version of Windows Server 2008. (for testing purposes only)

Software Assurance Customers

When you're a Software Assurance (SA) customer you can request the media and productkeys to migrate your Windows Server 2003 infrastructure to Windows Server 2008. This will be possible within 90 days of the launch.

If you have an OEM fetish you can expect to buy new servers with Windows Server 2008 preinstalled in 90 days.

Further Reading

Media Alert: Microsoft Releases Windows Vista SP1, Windows Server 2008 to Manufacturing Windows Server 2008 RTMs!!
Windows Vista SP1 Released!
IT's there…
Windows Server 2008 and Vista SP1 are RTM !
Microsoft Releases Windows Vista SP1, Windows Server 2008 to Manufacturing RTM !!!
Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista SP1 are soup
Windows Server 2008 & Windows Vista SP1 – RTM
Release Notes for Windows Vista Service Pack 1
Windows Server 2008 – RTM!!!
Forget the "Super Bowl", Windows Server 2008 has RTM'd!!!
Heroes Happen Here – See how it can work for you