Antimalware Tools Roadmap

The acquisitions of GeCAD and Giant Software are providing the antivirus and antispyware technology that are the foundation of Microsoft’s malicious software removal tools.

The Malicious Software Removal Tool, which detects and removes known viruses, worms, and Trojans, is updated monthly and is available for free from Microsoft Update and Windows Update.

Windows Defender, currently in beta as Microsoft Antispyware, detects and removes malicious software such as spyware and adware. When it is finally released, it will be available for free to users who validate that they have a genuine copy of Windows.

OneCare, currently in beta, includes antivirus and antispyware detection and removal, as well as a better firewall, tools to monitor the health of a computer, and a tool to help customers back up and restore their files. OneCare will likely be offered as a Web-based service with a monthly or annual subscription fee.

Client Protection, due to enter beta before the end of 2005, combines antivirus and antispyware detection and removal with tools to help organizations manage the tools on all of their computers. Release date and licensing details are unknown.