Configuration Manager Service Pack 2 release candidate is now available for download for all customers on connect. Service Pack 2 delivers new platform support for both Windows 7, Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows Server 2008 SP2.

For many of my customers, support for Windows 7 OS Deployment will be the primary reason to upgrade, and I think we'll see the fastest adoption of a Service Pack in production environments ever… Everyone want to start deploying Windows 7 but they really need a supported deployment platform.

Another great feature in Service Pack 2 is the Branch Cache Support that enables support for scenario's where Windows Server 2008 R2 and/or Windows 7 clients, can cache packages for distribution on the local subnet. This will reduce the number of required Distribution Points and (hopefully) the need for Branch Distribution Points.

To download the release candidate, just sign-up on connect right here:
https://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=16

Happy testing… And don't forget to provide feedback to the product team :o)