Microsoft puts security ahead of innovations

By D. Ian Hopper and Ted Bridis
Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates informed employees yesterday of a major strategy shift across all its products, including its Windows software, to emphasize security and privacy over new capabilities.

In e-mail to employees obtained by The Associated Press, Gates referred to the new philosophy as "Trustworthy Computing" and called it the "highest priority" to ensure that computer users continue to venture across an increasingly Internet-connected world.

Gates characterized the new emphasis as "more important than any other part of our work."

"If we don't do this, people simply won't be willing — or able — to take advantage of all the other great work we do," Gates said.

"When we face a choice between adding features and resolving security issues, we need to choose security. Our products should emphasize security right out of the box."

The dramatic change comes after the discovery of major security problems in Microsoft products, such as a flaw in the latest versions of Windows that allow hackers to seize control of a user's computer. Another problem allowed Code Red viruses to cripple computers running Microsoft products. Gates also referred to the Sept. 11 terrorism in listing security concerns.

One person with knowledge of the change said products will be tested for security risks — and if they fail, won't be marketed.