There was a time when spotting the next Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) was a growth stock aspiration. These days, finding the next Microsoft may be like scouting the poster child of stagnancy.

Microsoft shares haven't gone anywhere over the past five years. Worse still, the shares have shed half of their value since peaking in 1999. But is that such a bad thing? For folks looking to buy into the company, it may present a compelling opportunity.

Even though Microsoft has recently spent its time settling with everyone from the European Union to RealNetworks (NASDAQ:RNWK), value investors are starting to like what they see. The cash-rich software giant was recently recommended by Philip Durell to Motley Fool Inside Value newsletter service subscribers.

Then again, not all Fools agree. Chuck Saletta feels that Mr. Softy is undervalued. Tim Beyers believes that the bad news will only get worse for the company.

Does Microsoft belong in your portfolio? That's what this week's Duel is all about.

Duel on!