Microsoft to offer free anti-virus software
Microsoft has announced plans to offer free anti-virus software to PC users starting next year.
The Redmond, Washington-based software giant said the software, code-named “Morro,” will “provide comprehensive protection from malware including viruses, spyware, rootkits and trojans.”
In a statement on Tuesday, Microsoft said Morro would be focused on “core anti-malware protection” and would be available in the second half of 2009.
“This new solution, to be offered at no charge to consumers, will be architected for a smaller footprint that will use fewer computing resources, making it ideal for low-bandwidth scenarios or less powerful PCs,” it said.
Microsoft said it will discontinue sales of its current software security program, Windows Live OneCare, from June 30, 2009.