Microsoft Cloud/Enterprise VP Satya Nadella Named New CEO

To replace Steve Ballmer

Now the hard part begins.

After a six-months-long search, Microsoft has handed responsibility for its future to Satya Nadella, who replaces Steve Ballmer and becomes only the third chief executive in the company's nearly four-decade-long history.

Founder Bill Gates, meanwhile, will move over as a "technology advisor," suggesting a more active role in the development of Microsoft product. John Thompson will take over as chairman.