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Microsoft anti-spyware free
16/02/2005 10:33 - (SA)
San Francisco - Microsoft will give away software to battle spyware, adware and other privacy-invading pests, company co-founder Bill Gates said on Tuesday.
In a speech to security experts, Gates said the programs, which users often accept when they install free software without reading its accompanying licensing agreements, are quickly becoming a major threat to the future of computing.
Last month, the company released a free "beta", or test version of Microsoft AntiSpyware, which was based on technology from a firm it acquired in December. But it had not announced whether the technology would be free in the final release.
"Spyware ... is something we need to nip now," Gates said.
"We made the decision that all of our Windows licensees should have that (antispyware) capability. I'm excited we got this technology and it addresses a burning need for our users."
Gates' remarks suggest users will have to confirm they're running a licensed copy of Windows before installing the final release of the antispyware program.
The program also includes a feature where users can submit information back to Microsoft so that it keeps up with the latest threats. Even in beta, Gates said, the Spy Net network has been incredibly useful.
"We get half million reports each day," he said. "That's the data we use to make sure we're on top of these things."
Gates, who is now Microsoft's chairperson and chief software architect, also said the company will make a paid version of its antispyware technology available to companies that need more advanced control over their systems.
Gates spoke at the RSA Conference, which is sponsored by RSA Security Inc of Bedford, Massachusetts.
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