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.

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.