The American software company believes it has invested billions of USD over the years to protect user systems, and now it is time for them to be compensated.
Four years after Chairman Bill Gates introduced the Trustworthy Computing policy, prioritizing security as a top issue, Microsoft began to view security tools as a promising product line. They plan not only to engage in computer security but also to seek new opportunities in the mobile device market.
The corporation will start selling products designed in-house, including the $50 per year OneCare antivirus service and the upcoming Microsoft Client Protection software.
A survey by Yankee Group in January revealed that businesses have spent $3 billion on security issues. Yankee affirmed that Microsoft’s motivation to invest in security stems from the substantial revenue potential in this market, which they cannot afford to overlook.
However, Microsoft still faces many challenges, as not everyone is willing to pay for Microsoft to fix the vulnerabilities in the software they provide. “Microsoft’s programs create problems for users, so why should we pay extra to fix these flaws?” asked John Pescatore, a research expert at Gartner.
Nevertheless, Pescatore appreciates Microsoft’s efforts to protect its customers. Even John Thompson, CEO of American security firm Symantec, praised Microsoft, noting that while there were 100 high-risk attacks recorded from 2002 to 2004, only 6 occurred last year.
Last month, Jim Allchin, head of the Windows division, revealed that they dedicated up to one-third of the time spent developing the Windows Vista operating system to enhancing security measures.
“If Microsoft’s antivirus software is easier to use and more effective than existing programs, many users will still be willing to pay for it,” Pescatore affirmed.
T.N
