Microsoft's New Building Blocks

Teleo, which Microsoft bought at the end of August, is a VOIP software and services provider that complements MSN and its other VOIP investments. Teleo targets mobile professionals who rely on email and cell phones for communications. It was designed to be used with Outlook and Internet Explorer, and it will be integrated into MSN Messenger and other products such as MSN Search.

The software giant announced the acquisition Thursday of FolderShare, a service that allows users to create private peer-to-peer networks, enabling them to share files across all the computers and devices they use. Imagine BitTorrent, but for businesses, to share work-related files. It eliminates the need to send large files via email or burn large files on CDs.

This happens to be a very useful tool if the files are secure and space on your devices is limited. It also should integrate well with Groove Networks.

Groove, which Microsoft struck a deal for in March, allows users to share files, manage projects and track data and processes virtually. Founder Ray Ozzie has stayed on and was named CTO of Microsoft.

Groove will operate independently from Microsoft and maintain its current setup. Groove and FolderShare are critical for the Microsoft Live initiative announced earlier this week, which is an attempt to get into the collaborative Web 2.0 arena before Google (GOOG Quote) dominates it.

In September Microsoft picked up Alacris, a provider of identification and access-management technologies for smart cards and digital certificates. Alacris had partnered with Microsoft in the past on developing IDNEXUS.

This acquisition has helped bolster Microsoft's image in security circles. "Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 will require all federal employees and contractors to have smart cards in the next year and a half," said Conrad Bayer, vice president and chief technology officer of Alacris. "Also, the sectors where we already see great usage of our technology, such as banking, insurance, pharmaceuticals and health care, should continue to see needs increase in these areas."