Microsoft to release Windows 7

Microsoft plans to release a nearly final version of its Windows 7 operating system at the end of the month.

The version, known as a 'release candidate', or RC, essentially means the world's largest software company is in the final stages of completing the operating system.

Windows is depending heavily on its Windows operating system, which is main source of income for it.

With Windows 7, Microsoft is hoping to repair a reputation damaged by Windows Vista, which many corporate customers are still avoiding.

Research from IT research firm Forrester in January showed that just one third of IT decision makers have begun migrating to Windows Vista, two years after its launch.