Windows XP has remained the corporate desktop operating system (OS) standard for most enterprises for several years, but its reign will end with the availability of Windows 7 to IT professionals as early as August 6, 2009. Windows 7 is shaping up to be a suitable replacement for organizations that couldn't justify an upgrade to Windows Vista, and it even has some firms that took the Vista plunge rethinking their upgrade strategy. One of the first steps IT managers should take is to determine their firm's Windows 7 licensing strategy and how it fits into their broader Microsoft relationship. Why bother, three months before its release? Most firms have extended the lives of their existing desktops and laptops so that they can tie in the OS upgrade with their next major PC refresh cycle. You will now have to consider your existing system's age, licensing investments, and how Software Assurance impacts initiatives like desktop virtualization to ensure your move to Windows 7 is cost-effective now and throughout its life cycle at your company.