Microsoft has announced two new solutions that build on the security features of Windows XP Service Pack 2 to provide further protection against spyware and malicious software. However, the move is not expected to shake up the antivirus software industry.
Users of Windows 2000 or later versions of the operating system can already download the beta version of Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware. The software enables users to remove known spyware from a PC and blocks common spyware transfer methods.
"The size of the Windows AntiSpyware download is 6.23MB and with a download time of about four minutes on a corporate line up to 20 minutes on an analogue home line for South African customers," says Colin Erasmus, technology security manager for Microsoft SA.
Microsoft`s AntiSpyware solution is based on technology acquired from GIANT Company Software in December 2004. The software determines which programs are spyware using input from Microsoft researchers and the worldwide voluntary SpyNet community. Updates of spyware signatures can be downloaded automatically.
Erasmus says no decision has yet been made on whether Microsoft will continue to make the tool available for free download, but there will be at least one more free beta version before general release of a formal antispyware tool.
The malicious software removal tool will be available from 11 January either as a high-priority update through Windows Update and through Auto Update for Windows XP-based PCs configured to receive priority updates automatically or through Internet download. Microsoft plans to update the tool as part of its monthly security software update process.
The malicious software removal tool consolidates Microsoft`s series of removal tools released in 2004 and is aimed at removing prevalent viruses and worms. The tool is based on technology that Microsoft acquired from its 2003 purchase of Romanian antivirus software maker GeCAD Software.
It has been suggested that the move takes Microsoft closer to competing with mainstream antivirus vendors, but Brett Myroff, CEO of local Sophos distributor NetXactics, disagrees.
"We welcome the competition, but don`t expect any major changes to the market," says Myroff. "As far as we are concerned, companies that specialise in the antivirus market will remain on top, and if Microsoft releases either of these tools as standalone products, they are unlikely to dominate any sector of the antivirus market."
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