An entire page in The Financial Times was the stage where McAfee has lashed out at Microsoft's jugular invoking the hamstringing software companies in order to resolve "weaknesses" inherent to Windows security. In doing so, McAfee has joined Symantec that has all but accused the Redmond Company of monopolistic practices. The two companies are addressing Microsoft's security strategy with Windows Vista that denies third-parties' software access to the operating system's kernel.

"Microsoft is being completely unrealistic if, by locking security companies out of the kernel (core), it thinks hackers won't crack Vista's kernel. In fact, they already have," accused McAfee.

The duo alleges that being locked out of the Vista's core will make it more difficult for their security products to integrate with the upcoming OS, giving Microsoft's own security solutions an illegal advantage. Europe will provide the legal territory for the confrontation that will undoubtedly escalate once Vista hits the market in January 2007.

As far, neither company has filled an official complaint against Microsoft. The European Antitrust Commission has its hands tied behind its back as the legal context does not permit it to take action until Windows Vista will be launched. "We have an ongoing dialogue with Microsoft. It's not up to us to give them a green light. It's up to them to assure full compliance with the law," stated a European Commission spokesman.

"Our goal is to deliver a fully innovative, secure version of Windows Vista that is compliant with EU law. We have an ongoing and constructive dialog with the Commission on these issues," a Microsoft spokesman commented. "Partners are at the core of Microsoft's business model. We have worked closely with our security partners throughout the development of Windows Vista, and continue to do so."