One, called AntiSpyware, can be downloaded from Microsoft's Web site. As the name suggests, it keeps PCs free of malicious code that tracks consumers' Internet usage. The other application is a tool to remove any malware that the AntiSpyware program might find on a computer.

AntiSpyware is based on security technology developed by Giant Company Software, a firm that Microsoft acquired in December.

Another Market Play?

Microsoft says the acquisition of Giant and subsequent release of AntiSpyware is all about fulfilling its mandate to protect customers against the many viruses that target Windows operating systems.

Indeed, analysts gave Microsoft kudos for its ongoing efforts in this area when the acquisition was announced. It "shows people that the company is serious about assaults on its software," Yankee Group analyst Laura DiDio told NewsFactor.

However, given that this is, after all, Microsoft, there is widespread speculation that the company is planning to enter the security space -- and that these offers are the initial move. Published reports note that Microsoft partners have been briefed on an upcoming security subscription service code-named A1, which would bundle anti-spyware and anti-virus protection.

Educating Consumers

"Generally Microsoft is making a lot of comments about virus protection as well as sypware," Sophos security consultant Greg Mastoras tells NewsFactor. "Our sense is that it is a way for them to educate consumers that they are trying to do something about security."

Whether or not Microsoft does enter the field remains to be seen. But the software giant might not have as big an impact there as it has had in previous areas. For starters, the security market is fairly jumping as firms continue to enter and build out security suite capabilities.

And, as Mastoras points out, "security is different than other software." Buyers tend to have different perceptions of the vendors and who can best protect their computers, he says, adding, "I believe consumers will continue to look at other avenues to protect themselves other than their OS provider."