[IT] Microsoft DreamSpark

What is DreamSpark?

Other than totally cool? Glad you asked. Here’s how it works: if you’re a current university or high school student, you can download professional Microsoft developer, designer, and gaming software through DreamSpark at no charge. Yes, students get to download software at no charge. DreamSpark enables students, like you, to download and use Microsoft tools to unlock your creative potential and set you on the path to academic and career success by advancing your learning in the areas of technical design, technology, math, science, and engineering! It doesn’t matter what classes you’re taking right now, just as long as you’re a current student in a verified, accredited School and use the tools in pursuit of advancing your education in one of these areas.

What Microsoft software does this site offer?

Currently, you can get the following Microsoft tools from DreamSpark:

• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Developer Edition
• Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 Professional Edition
• Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition
• Microsoft Expression Studio 1.0
• Microsoft Expression Studio 2 Trial Edition (includes Web, Blend, Media, and Design)
• Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Standard Edition
• IT Academy Student Pass

Oh, and by the way? These are the serious versions for serious people. We’re talking, the big-time stuff.

In addition, in the spirit of cool things to download and “one-stop shopping”, you can also download software (currently available on www.microsoft.com at no charge) like:

• SQL Server 2008 Express Edition
• Visual Studio 2008 Express Edition
• XNA Game Studio 2.0 (with 12-month Creators Club Student trial membership)
• Virtual PC 2007
• Visual Basic 2005 Express
• Visual C++ 2005 Express
• Visual C# 2005 Express
• Visual Web Developer 2008 Express
• Visual Basic 2008 Express
• Visual C++2008 Express
• Visual C# 2008 Express

What's the difference between the Microsoft software on DreamSpark and the Microsoft products I can buy in the store?

DreamSpark has the same, completely-loaded Microsoft software that professional developers pony up good cash to buy. However, through DreamSpark, we’re providing this software directly to students like you, at no charge, to advance your learning and skills through technical design, technology, math, science and engineering activities. We want to give you the chance to explore the software tools used in business today to help prepare you to be a member of the next generation of developers and designers!

Are the beta or full-featured versions of the Microsoft software available on the DreamSpark site?

Beta-schmeta! Nothing but full-featured professional Microsoft software for you. But sometimes we might add in a beta product if we think it’s something you’ll think is cool. Also, the Microsoft developer, designer and gaming tools available on DreamSpark are NOT 30-day trial versions.

Are there any limitations on the way I use the Microsoft tools I get through DreamSpark?

This software is the complete and professional grade versions of the tools, but you must use them in pursuit of increasing your education, skills, and knowledge in either science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or design.

Source : Microsoft DreamSpark Official Website