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The Whole (Microsoft Windows) Enchilada
This is the first time the server side applications and the client side applications are all being updated at the same time.
Storm Clouds?
This is the first time a really new computing model—cloud computing—is demanding that Microsoft can show it can play well with others.
Google in the Rear View Mirror
This the first time that a big new competitor—Google—is creating a new operating system to be available within twelve months of the new Windows.
Where's Bill?
This will be the first Windows client operating system introduced following Bill Gates retirement.
A Clean, Well Lighted Place
This is the first Windows client that will tout simplicity instead of complexity based on a NASA level programming effort.
Secure by Design
This is the first client where security will take prominence over touting backward compatibility.
All Together Now
This is the first time that an economic recovery, an aging IT infrastructure and a vendor community anxious to spur sales and a range of new processor chips will all play to the Microsoft upgrade theme song.
Zero Price Competition
This is the first time that there are really good, mature free operating system competitors to Microsoft.
A Healthy Apple
This is the first time that a healthy Apple is setting the consumer agenda in lots of areas where Microsoft would like to play.
Vista? Never Heard of It
This will be the first time that Microsoft's major competitor is not the previous Microsoft operating system but an operating system—XP—introduced in October 2001.
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On Oct. 22, Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system arrives on store shelves and, possibly, in your IT department. For Microsoft and the legions of IT administrators that rely on Windows technology, this is a big deal with implications for the global economy. The unveiling of Windows 7, especially in light of what happened with Windows Vista and the legacy of Windows XP, not only means a lot for Microsoft but for businesses that rely on Windows for their IT infrastructure.
Here, eWEEK's Eric Lundquist looks at what Windows 7 means, from its impact on the growing cloud computing infrastructure to what the impact is on competitors such as Google and Apple. In addition, Lundquist explores what the Windows 7 upgrade means for your IT department and your own PC.