Security Vendors Not Happy with How Microsoft's Spreading MSE

Article by George Norman (Cybersecurity Editor)

on 12 Nov 2010

Earlier this week we were reporting that Redmond-based software giant Microsoft is offering its free security software solution Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) via Windows Update. Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 users who subscribe to Microsoft Windows Update are offered MSE as an optional update if they do not have any antivirus application installed on their machine.

This has not gone well with some security vendors. Panda Security, for example, says that it is on the same page with Microsoft when Microsoft says that users with no security software need to get protection. But Panda Security is not one the same page with Microsoft when the later pushes just one free security software solution to Windows users.

“We agree with Microsoft; it’s better to have some protection than not having any at all. However the way the guys in Redmond are executing the idea is risky from a security perspective and could very well make the malware situation much worse for Internet users. That’s why we encourage Microsoft to continue using Windows/Microsoft Update but instead to push all free antivirus products available on the market, not just MSE,” said Luis Corrons, PandaLabs Director and Malware Alerts Coordinator.

Trend Micro, company that specializes in providing network antivirus and internet content security software, has expressed its discontent with how Microsoft is pushing MSE as well.

“Commercializing Windows Update to distribute other software applications raises significant questions about unfair competition," said Carol Carpenter, the general manager of the consumer and small business group at Trend Micro. “Windows Update is a de facto extension of Windows, so to begin delivering software tied to updates has us concerned. Windows Update is not a choice for users, and we believe it should not be used this way.”

Jeff Smith, director of marketing for Security Essentials, responded by saying the following: “We are always looking for the most effective and efficient ways to ensure our customers are protected against viruses, spyware and other malicious threats.”

If you would like to learn more about Microsoft Security Essentials or download the application, please click here.


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