Microsoft’s acquisition of GIANT Company Software makes sense — to more than just Microsoft. With an anti-spyware software in its portfolio, Microsoft will be able to satisfy its customers’ demands for more protection. Windows 2000 and XP users will see the benefits from this purchase within the next month when Microsoft releases a beta version of its new anti-spyware product for download. Microsoft’s entry puts significant pressure on smaller spyware vendors, such as Lavasoft and Webroot. Larger security vendors will also need to innovate to provide significant additional value above Microsoft’s product.
