The Battlefield: Bad Company 2 PC Beta version was released today 28 january 6pm CET, 12pm EST, 9am PST and 5:00 pm GMT. Everybody who has pre-ordered the game will now be able to download the Beta version and test the game with the Beta key that's been sent to you.

Why a Beta?
The Beta is coming for many reasons, like testing the infrastructure, hosting stability, and gameplay tuning (FOV, Weapon Balance, etc...) that no amount of internal testing could provide better than real world exposure. This means there will also be times of choppiness, lag, disconnects, CTDs or other issues a Beta version of any MP game would have.

We'll have feedback methods similar to the PS3 Beta as well to ensure your input is gathered and heard. There will be things updated in the final game, like a Server browser with more functions, optimizations, performance tweaks, and learning's from the Beta.

This truly is a Beta, so remember that all feedback is appreciated and wanted!

Where to Get It
The Client will be downloadable from server partner websites and Steam starting at the above listed time at a file size of 1.5GB.
Here's a hyper-link reminder http://bit.ly/4GJk2a on which retailers will provide PC Beta access through pre-ordering.

Dowload your Beta here: http://www.battlefieldbadcompany2.com/en-gb/beta

Getting Started

• STEP 1: Make sure you have at least 5GB free on your HDD and then download and Install BFBC2!
  
  
• STEP 2: Once installation is completed (install size will be around 1.5GB) start the client and click the login button.
  You will then be prompted to sign in with your EA Account. If you don't have an EA Account you'll be able to create one in the same screen.
  
  
• STEP 3: Enter the unique PC Beta Code during the log in process to authenticate your participation in the Beta.
  
  
• Step 4: Create your Soldier name (this will lock that name to your EA account for retail if you want to keep it).

Note: You will not be able to play or access any multiplayer menus without being authenticated. After the Beta Key is registered it will be tied to your EA Account and no longer valid for new registrations. Our game will use SecuROM for the Beta and Final games .exe, for more info on how SecuROM works in BFBC2 please read this Blog to learn about it in more detail.

Source: http://blogs.battlefield.ea.com/