Microsoft's 5 biggest weaknesses

For all its success as the world's biggest maker of PC operating systems and office programs, Microsoft's position as the dominant provider of software to consumers is at risk. Here are five reasons why.

While Windows still powers the vast majority of desktops and laptops, the emergence of mobile devices and increasing reliance on the Internet have shown consumers and businesses alike that much of what we call personal computing can be done without touching a single Microsoft product.

Microsoft is still a giant, with over £40 billion ($70 billion) in annual revenue and an amazing 11 products that earn at least $1 billion (over £600 million) a year. But it faces challenges in search, Web browsing, mobile devices, Web server software, and even the desktop operating system market.