Windows Defender … for the good of everyone!
November 7th, 2005
The more I think about Windows Defender the more I like the idea but the more I think that Microsoft is going to run into a whole heap of trouble over it now Symantec seems like it is in trouble. I’ve watched over the past year how Symantec has watched but not done anything about Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool that comes in monthly with every Windows Update. However, in October, Symantec made a complaint to the EU Commission although later it said that it had no plans to take legal action against them. No matter how you look at this, it can’t be coincidence and Symantec are obviously threatened by Microsoft and the new thrust on security it is taking.
There’s no doubt that the world is safer for the monthly Malicious Software Removal Tool and that a regular check and tune up of PCs would be an excellent thing (go here for a test drive of Microsoft’s new Windows Live Safety Center) but it’s also obvious that this will come at a cost to Microsoft – more legal troubles.
What’s good for consumers though isn’t good for business. This time though, given the cost and impact of security issues, Microsoft should make these tools freely available for the good of all computer users everywhere. Even if you aren't using Windows you still see spam and your data is at risk because of others using it. Everyone would benefit.
More coverage on this issue at the Washington Post website.
This entry was posted on Monday, November 7th, 2005 at 16:30 and is filed under PC Doctor's Thoughts. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.
