Microsoft plans to stop accepting paid subscriptions to Windows Live OneCare in mid-2009. The security software is slated to be replaced by a free offering code-named Morro, which will focus on providing consumer PCs with core protection from viruses, spyware, rootkits, trojans and other forms of malware.
“We know that there are still some 60 percent of consumers in developed markets — and even more in emerging markets — that don’t have up-to-date security protection on their PCs, and we want to help provide that core level of protection,” said Amy Barzdukas, senior director of product management at Microsoft’s Online Services and Windows Division.
Low-Bandwidth Scenarios
Morro will deliver the essential protections that consumers need by “shifting the focus onto the core anti-malware features that most consumers still don’t keep up to date,” Barzdukas said. The platform also will be available in a smaller footprint that will use fewer computing resources, she said.
One goal is to make Morro “ideal for low-bandwidth scenarios or less-powerful PCs,” Barzdukas said. The other is to remove the cost barriers that have slowed security software adoption in emerging markets — where low-cost mini-notebook and netbook devices are becoming popular.
“By offering such basic protection at no charge to the consumer, Microsoft is promoting a safer environment for PCs, service providers and e-commerce itself, since it is through unprotected PCs that the worst threats are introduced to the system as a whole,” said Roger Kay, founder and president of Endpoint Technologies Associates.
More Threat Intelligence
Morro will integrate the same core malware engine that Microsoft uses across its line of anti-malware products. However, the new platform will not incorporate the same set of features that Windows Live OneCare currently provides.
For example, Morro will not offer or support multi-PC “circle” management and printer sharing, Barzdukas said….