Symantec On a Positive Note

The chief executive of Symantec, John Thompson, publicly said he was encouraged about Microsoft’s response about their kernel lockdown. As I previously reported (found here), companies are moving at great lenght to crack down PatchGuard which prohibit developers from accessing the kernel system. The ability to access and modify kernel is said to be a requirement in the core offerings of security companies and their inability may render their products inferior to the security system sold by Microsoft.

It makes sense that the chief executive himself is involved in this public outcry because of the seriousness of the issue. It would be a difficult competition for security firms when Microsoft’s security products are built within the system which gives them the edge of selling superior products at lesser cost.

I believe Microsoft is going to create APIs to access the kernel to keep them distant from law suits on their monopolistic stance. The only question is when? After their security products have gained momentum?