Why .NET will conquer the world
ZDNet | at | by Mike
.NET clearly bears a strong resemblance to Java. It offers many of the same features, while adding interesting additions of its own (code metadata, versioned assemblies, etc). Microsoft, however, is better positioned to create a cross-market software unification framework than Sun Microsystem's ever was (or is). This will result in a rapid expansion in .NET's popularity which eats into Java's market share as it grows to take over the development world.
1. The breadth of Microsoft's market presence. You would be hard pressed to find a software market where Microsoft does not have a strong presence. They have a popular database in SQL Server, a game console in XBox, handhelds that run PocketPC, server and desktop operating systems, a software library that includes business workhorses such as the Office suite, and CRM solutions through its Great Plains division (purchased by Microsoft over a year ago), just to name a few.