Is Microsoft a monopoly?

[sunandaC]

Many users who use Windows also use much additional Windows-based software, e.g. Microsoft Word and Internet Explorer. Opponents argue that Microsoft is too reluctant to share its Windows code with them and so they cannot develop high-quality software to run on the widely used Windows platform. Others argue that Microsoft has exploited its near-monopoly over the operating systems of personal computers by integrating new features into Windows as a way of deterring users from paying potential competitors for similar software, giving away tools such as an internet browser or audio and video player in order to drive other companies out of business. It is also accused of leaning on computer makers who preload software (including Windows) on to the PCs they sell, in an effort to prevent Microsoft's competitors gaining valuable access to the desktop in this way. In consequence, Microsoft is allegedly able to reap the benefits of an effective monopoly in many cases.

 

[dimpy.handa]

If a major IT user tells a Microsoft salesperson that he or she is thinking about switching to Linux, Microsoft will usually come back with a cut-price offer, something the company never used to do. Microsoft also now sells something called Windows Starter Edition in some parts of the world -- supposedly for as low as $37 or $38 (US) in Thailand, including a basic version of Microsoft Office. In other words, Microsoft is starting to compete on price, which is not monopoly-style behavior.

This does not mean Microsoft has suddenly adopted a "let's all love one another" attitude.I believe Microsoft is getting more concerned about interoperability not out of goodness, but because of market pressure. But in the long run, as long as Microsoft stops treating every other operating system and file format as some sort of devilspawn, life is a little easier for those of us who would rather not use their products, and that's what really matters.

 

[pranavdash]

I dont think so Microsoft Windows still dominates the desktop,But in many other areas, including Web servers and supercomputing, Microsoft is just one player among many, and often a weak player at that.On the Internet, MSN and MSN Search are so far behind AOL and Google And even on the desktop, Linux keeps getting stronger, while Mac OS X is commonly accepted as more reliable