Microsoft, in its attempt to battle the rootkit problem in the 64 bit version of windows, is requiring all drivers to be digitally signed.
This single move will destroy the availability of any free device drivers. Individual developers are unlikely to obtain the $500 certificate needed to sign a driver.
It does make things more difficult for root-kit developers, but at the same time it opens the door to Linux and Apple. This will force developers learning their trade to pick either Apple, or Linux for initial driver development. Over time this could give them a significant advantage – especially Apple