Microsoft hedges corporate security bets

New alliance tempers move into anti-spyware and antivirus

Microsoft will temper its move into antivirus and anti-spyware provision for business desktops with a new alliance that will see it work more closely with rival security vendors.

In October Microsoft said its Client Protection offering will guard corporate laptops, desktops and file servers against threats such as spyware and rootkits. It will be optimised for use with Active Directory and Windows Server Update Services.

But Alan Rodger of analyst Butler Group was unimpressed. "The Client Protection beta service is a long way [qualitatively] behind other vendors, and it's not going to be out for a year plus at least," he said. "Microsoft is only doing a little in this area and what it is doing is a little bit late."

The SecureIT Alliance will see Microsoft's industry partners working together to develop security tools for the Windows platform.

Founding members of the alliance include Symantec and Websense - rivals to Microsoft in the field of integrated security suites. Rodger welcomed the opportunity for these vendors to get closer to the guts of Windows. "Let's hope Microsoft commits to it as this will help its customers," he added.

David Bradshaw of analyst firm Ovum said that the alliance shows Microsoft is attempting to create a level playing field with security vendors by sharing information.

But others were sceptical about the prospect of Microsoft working with third parties. "I'm afraid it means everyone else should do what Microsoft tells them, " said Gartner vice-president Jay Heiser. "It's difficult to accept Microsoft has suddenly decided to be co-operative in the security arena."

Bradshaw, meanwhile, said that a more secure Windows could undermine security vendor profits.

Microsoft also announced plans to release its Antigen antivirus and anti-spam software for messaging and collaboration servers, based on technology from its acquisition of Sybari.