Microsoft Unveils Paid Security Service
Back in 2003, Microsoft purchased a Romanian Anti-virus company called GeCAD. When that happened, AV companies like Symantec, McAffee and Computer Associates started quaking in their boots. It showed too. The traditional AV companies went on buying sprees, acquiring other security companies in an attempt to shore up traditional AV sales with other offerings, such as backup software, anti-spyware, mail filtering, and others.
Microsoft first used Giant Software for its anti-spyware platform. And it is a fabulous product too. Its free, and its more functional than any other spyware detection and elimination program. Now it looks like Microsoft will be releasing an AV platform too. It won’t be free, but the traditional AV companies just let out a collective “Oh No!” From the AP here:
SEATTLE – A new security service from Microsoft Corp. will charge users $49.95 per year to better protect its Windows operating system from spyware, viruses and other Internet attacks.
Microsoft plans to release the product in early June.
Called Windows OneCare Live, the subscription service will compete with security products made by traditional Microsoft partners, including Symantec Corp. and McAfee Inc. ? although the software giant insists that its aim is not to run those companies out of business.
Ryan Hamlin, general manager of Microsoft’s Technology Care and Safety Group, said Microsoft is less concerned with converting people already using other products. Instead, Hamlin says Microsoft’s goal is to provide protection for users who don’t have any added or up-to-date security ? a group that Microsoft estimates comprises 70 percent of consumer users.
“There’s plenty of room here, kind of, for all of us,” Hamlin said.
OneCare, which is already available for free in test form, aims to protect people running the most recent version of Windows against Internet attacks and intrusive spyware. It also promises to provide regular tuneups to help keep computers running smoothly, and offers users a way to back up and restore data.
The system will automatically update with the latest protections and occasionally add new features, Hamlin said.
Anyone who signs up for the test by April 30 can buy the paid service for just $19.95 per year.
The subscription fee is for up to three personal computers.
I have long been a supporter of Microsoft products, and I think this is a good move for the company. Many detractors will bemoan the fact that MS is about to run many of the AV companies out of business. But I say its about time that Microsoft will take such an active role in keeping its product up-to-date and secure. My only complaint is that this is not FREE.
