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Microsoft introduces OneCare security subscription service

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18th May 2005
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Microsoft this week announced plans to offer a subscription service called Windows OneCare to provide automated security and maintenance for PC users.

As part of the testing process, Windows OneCare was rolled out this week to Microsoft employees, with the full commercial launch planned for the latter half of 2005.

Presented by Microsoft as a simple, integrated means to achieve a "worry-free" user experience, OneCare is designed to ward off viruses, worms and spyware as well as broader PC health issues. The main features will include:

  • Automatic anti-virus and anti-spyware updates and a two-way firewall
  • Performance and reliability tools - with OneCare able to carry out periodic disk cleaning and defragmentation.
  • Backup and restore capabilities from CDs and DVDs.

    The service will run in the background until scheduled tasks take place or users need to be notified of updates or other recommended actions, Microsoft said.

    Pricing and UK availability have yet to be announced. For more information about Windows OneCare, visit www.microsoft.com/windows/onecare.

    The OneCare initiative follows the launch of Windows AntiSpyware in January. As can be expected with Microsoft, the new proposition outraged users who feel Microsoft is asking them to pay for basic inadequacies within its flagship operating system.

    In a blog on the Bayosphere site, Silicon Valley commentator Dan Gilmour wrote: "In winning and sustaining its monopoly in the operating system and browser markets, Microsoft has exposed countless millions of people to woes from security holes that have become conduits for viruses, worms and spyware. Now the software giant is planning to charge its captive customers to clean up the mess it created."

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