The days when you bought the Windows operating system as a standalone product will come to an end. With the introduction of the modular Windows, Microsoft is going to introduce a new payment strategy for the operating system.

In the "System and method for delivery of a modular operating system" patent filed by the Redmond Company with the US Patent and Trademark Office, Microsoft is describing a fragmented operating system built on a basic core kernel that will support add-on modules for the separate components of the product.

While dividing the add-on modules into four broad categories: hardware, peripherals, communication and applications/bundles, Microsoft will deliver additional components, capabilities, support and features to the modular Windows based either on a fixed fee or by subscription.

The good news although is that the fundamental modular Windows kernel will feature a minimal cost or will even be provided free of charge. In the adjacent picture you are able to see a modular Windows model. It features the Basic Kernel, a Kernel add-module enhancing the fundamental core and five different Add-on modules.

Just take a peak at modules 210, 212 and 214. Add-on module 210 will be offered for free, add-on module 212 comes with a price tag of $6 while, and this is where I was trying to get, add-on module 214 will come with a $2/month subscription.

"The operating system is composed of a small basic kernel, often given away for free. The small basic kernel, may be used for simple operations and for basic application support. A user of the computer system may then have the opportunity to add specific modules supporting the functionality required for his or her particular interests. While some add-on modules may be free, others may be available for a fee or as part of a subscription," reads an excerpt of the Microsoft patent.