Maybe Microsoft is trying to field an operating system that deals with tens of thousands of constantly-evolving complex software applications, computer components and hardware peripherals. The system comes with 1.5 million built-in drivers.

And then there's hundreds of languages, the input from five million beta testers, and defenses against constant attacks from hackers and virus generators.

How you doing on that one website, Robert?

Some have said that the wonder of a dancing bear is not that it dances well, but that it dances at all. Microsoft is trying to pull off the equivalent of a bear that not only dances, but juggles three full-sized cars at the same time.

Microsoft isn't without blemish by any means, but they've done a pretty good job overall, and they've probably been responsible for the creation of more planet-wide wealth than any other company I can think of.

But hey, let's take a shot at the billionaire. After all, when Linux goes tits-up on some glitch, there's really no similar convenient target to bitch at, is there?

Frankly, I have trouble coming up with a lot of sympathy for anyone who buys a new operating system of this caliber in its first year. Why not just go swimming off the Farallons wearing a raw haunch of beef around your neck while you're at it.