As previously promised, Microsoft has officially launched the online security service OneCare Live for public testing worldwide. 
The OneCare service marks a significant breakthrough into the realm of computer virus protection—a domain long dominated by companies like Symantec, McAfee, and Trend Micro. Two years ago, Microsoft announced its plans to introduce security products following its acquisition of the security software developer GeCad Software.
Microsoft first revealed its OneCare service plans back in May. Selected users were invited to test the service in July. To date, the service primarily supports the English version of Windows XP SP2, which has been made available for global testing purposes. The official version of this service is expected to launch next year.
OneCare emphasizes customer-centricity; it is a service that combines Microsoft’s antivirus software, firewall, and several tools to enhance the Windows operating system. Microsoft has not yet announced the pricing for OneCare, but it will be a subscription-based service when the official version is released.
In addition to the OneCare service, Microsoft is also eyeing the security market. The company plans to begin testing the first version of Microsoft Client Protection by the end of this year—this product is designed to secure desktop computers, laptops, and enterprise data servers from malicious code attacks.
The beta version of Microsoft’s OneCare service is currently available for download from the website ideas.live.com. During the testing phase, the service is completely free.
