Microsoft has released a beta version of its next-generation Windows File System (WinFS).

A file system determines how data is structured and stored on a hard drive. WinFS promises to make it easier for users to find and organise documents regardless of their physical location.

WinFS was originally scheduled to be included in Windows Vista, but the technology was pulled from the forthcoming release last year and will be made available through an update in 2007.

Microsoft had previously touted WinFS as one of Vista's core technologies. While the new OS will keep the current file system, it will allow users to more easily organise files by offering to add meta data to a document. These organising capabilities will be further improved once WinFS is delivered.

Microsoft released the beta earlier than previously announced. The software has been made available to subscribers of the Microsoft Developer Network. 

The early beta release will allow the company to collect feedback from developers and users at the Professional Developer Conference on 13-16 September in Los Angeles. The event's main focus, however, will be on Windows Vista.