Study calls overreliance on Microsoft a security risk

Sep 30, 2003 12:00 PM

Microsoft's dominance in personal computer software leaves critical networks vulnerable to attack from viruses and hackers, according to a report by security experts.

The report, released by a trade group backed by rivals of Microsoft, highlights longstanding concerns about the national security risks posed by the company's near-monopoly in personal computer software. It was unveiled at the Computer and Communications Industry Association's meeting of industry leaders and government officials.

Security experts say that the dominance of the Windows desktop and related software makes it easier for a single attacker to shut down large numbers of computers.

"Vulnerabilities are found multiple times in a week," said Bruce Schneier of Counterpane Internet Security, one of the authors of the report. "In any other industry, it would be an embarrassment." "As fast as the world's computing infrastructure is growing, vulnerability to attack is growing faster still," said Daniel Geer, the main author of the report. "Microsoft's monopoly and the means to achieving that monopoly via tight integration of applications contribute to the flaws and vulnerabilities in the software and provide viruses with a highly efficient vehicle for global distribution."

The Americans for Technology Leadership, a pro-Microsoft group, called the report a veiled effort by the company's rivals to undermine the software giant.

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