First, Microsoft offered free spyware software when it released Windows Defender. That was a great choice and a perfectly good product that saved savvy computer users money they might have spent on other antispyware products. The code base that Microsoft got when acquiring Giant Software (from which Windows Defender evolved) was baked into Windows Vista and Server 2008, and will continue in Windows 7 as an integral part of the operating system. No more third-party software necessary; save your money.
Then Microsoft tried to sell a comprehensive antimalware and optimization product called Windows Live OneCare, which never gained enough market share, was plagued by early and confusing "Windows Live" branding, and ran afoul of consumers and technical support alike when it proved difficult to remove.
But Microsoft, being Microsoft, learned from its success with Windows Defender, and its mistakes with OneCare. On Tuesday, June 23, Microsoft will drive a stake into the heart of the commercial antimalware market when it releases a public beta of Microsoft Security Essentials, a free, comprehensive security package that will be released in final form later this year.
Microsoft continues to offer consumers free technical support for its security software and free security scans, so keep your dollars in your wallet and stop renewing your paid antivirus/antispyware subscriptions.
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