Improving the user experience has been one of computing's most vexing problems, and digital convergence is raising the stakes big time. Consumers will not tolerate the control-alt-delete and configuration nightmares. Microsoft wants to carry its dominance from the traditional PC world into this new era of converged digital, IP-based infrastructure. At WinHEC, Microsoft vp Jim Allchin noted that the company's success depends on mastering the fundamentals of simplicity and reliability. He's right: Without getting the fundamentals under control--including security--the next generation Microsoft platform could fall on its face. Microsoft has the money to outlast competitors, but it won't win the hearts and minds of customers. Check out my notes from WinHEC.