Microsoft has applauded a new move designed to give it a tad more pull on the security market against the already established heavyweight players in the industry. Even though it has been offering Windows Live OneCare for approximately a couple of years now, the software giant is yet to gain the same status as its rivals in the security game. However, the Redmond company is pushing onward. It has announced having inked no less than 11 deals with original equipment manufacturers to have Windows Live OneCare preinstalled on new computers.

"Consumers have told us they want an easier, more automated experience with the security and overall health of their PCs. Through these alliances, we are addressing the needs of new PC users who want to easily protect, backup and maintain their new PC right out of the box," explained Amy Barzdukas, senior director of Windows Live OneCare at Microsoft.

As a direct result of the new OEM partnerships, Microsoft's all-in-one security suite will ship by default on new computers from MDG Computers Canada, LEO Gesellschaft für Computer & Kommunikation mbH, WORTMANN AG, OLIDATA S.p.A., Hyrican Informationsysteme AG; Sotec Company Ltd.; TICNOVA QUALITY TEAM, S.L.; Sony Corporation of America and Toshiba Asia Pacific.

According to the software giant, trial subscriptions of Windows Live OneCare will be included in the default configuration of new machines as they ship in no less than 12 markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Xavier Lauwaert, of VAIO, product marketing at Sony Electronics, praised the new alliance with the Redmond giant. "Microsoft and Sony share the same goal of helping our customers get the most from their PC experience. Through this alliance, Windows Live OneCare will provide our customers with a simple solution to help them maintain and secure their new PC," he stated.