Microsoft Offers Free Security Software

Microsoft(MSFT Quote) plans to offer a new, free consumer security software product focused on core anti-malware protection.

Code-named "Morro," the security offering will be available in the second half of 2009 and will provide comprehensive protection from malware including viruses, spyware, rootkits and trojans, Microsoft said in a statement Tuesday. The offering is targeted to less powerful PCs.

The company said it plans to discontinue retail sales of its Windows Live OneCare subscription service effective June 30, 2009. The service being discontinued costs $49.95 a year and covers up to three PCs, according to Reuters.

With the move, the software giant appears to be taking aim at McAfee(MFE Quote) and Symantec(SYMC Quote), its chief rivals in the PC security market, according to Reuters.

McAfee said the move is a sign of capitulation on the part of Microsoft. McAfee said OneCare managed to capture less than 2% of the market in the two years it has been out, Reuters reports.