Software heavyweight Microsoft is planning to release a new set of software security tools for free. The company says that its plans for anti-malware software are in response to a growing need for PC security tailored to "the demands of emerging markets, smaller PC form factors and rapid increases in the incidence of malware".<\/p>\n
Code-named "Morro", the software will be available in the second half of 2009 and will give users protection from malware including viruses, spyware, rootkits and trojans. <\/p>\n
Morro will be offered to users at no cost and is expected to be designed to work under low-bandwith conditions and on less powerful machines. <\/p>\n
As part of Microsoft’s move, the company has also announced that it will discontinue retail sales of its Windows Live OneCare subscription service from June 30, 2009.<\/p>\n
"Customers around the world have told us that they need comprehensive, ongoing protection from new and existing threats, and we take that concern seriously," said Amy Barzdukas, senior director of product management for the Online Services and Windows Division at Microsoft. "This new, no-cost offering will give us the ability to protect an even greater number of consumers, especially in markets where the growth of new PC purchases is outpaced only by the growth of malware."<\/p>\n