Symantec gave Microsoft a finger and then took back both hands and a foot. Let me explain. Symantec has once again attacked Microsoft's security strategy with Windows Vista, downplaying the role that the Redmond Company will play in protecting Windows users. Symantec has acknowledged the fact that Vista is the most secure Windows operating system available on the market. However "while Microsoft has invested heavily in protecting the core operating system, attackers have already moved on," Symantec said.

The aggressive position adopted by the Cupertino-based security company is understandable as it has to fight off customer perception that Windows Vista is equivalent to a security solution and also the killer prices of Windows Live OneCare in comparison with its Norton 360.

"Symantec predicts that the new security features in Windows Vista will result in fewer instances of widespread worms that target core Windows operating system vulnerabilities. This class of worm was largely responsible for the majority of high-profile outbreaks in the early part of this century. We expect that worms will continue to thrive; however, their method of propagation will change. This trend has already been observed since the release of Windows XP SP2 and is expected to continue. Symantec does not believe that Windows Vista security improvements will stifle other classes of malicious code that have historically targeted the Windows operating system," the Cupertino-based security company forecasted.

Symantec continues to regard the end user as the weakest link in the security chain and the main vector of attacks for increasingly elaborated social engineering exploits.