Microsoft is to enter thefree consumer security softwarearena today with the
launch of its MicrosoftSecurity Essentialsproduct.
Formerly known by the code name "Morro", Microsoft Security
Essentials (MSE) replaces the commercially unsuccessful Windows
Live OneCare subscription security product for up to three PCs.
MSE is a trimmed down version of its predecessor and is aimed at
providing basic security protection to users of Windows to improve
the overall security standing of Microsoft's operating system.
Thousands of registered Windows users have downloaded a beta
version of MSE since June.
There is no firewall, back-up capabilities or spam filters, but
MSE still provides protection from viruses, Trojans, spyware and
rootkits.
According to Microsoft, MSE consumes minimal CPU and memory
resources and will not interfere with normal computing tasks.
"Consumers have told us that they want the protection of
real-time security software, but we know that too many are either
unwilling or unable to pay for it, so they remain unprotected,"
said Amy Barzdukas, general manager for consumer security at
Microsoft.
MSE provides real-time malware protection by linking to
Microsoft's Dynamic Signature Service, which keeps users protected
with the latest virus definitions before they are officially
released.
Commercial security software suppliers claim they are not
concerned by Microsoft's move because free software does not have
the support that the more important business market requires.
But more than half of UK small and medium businesses which use
security software
rely on free products, a survey has revealed.