Microsoft Gives Away Free Symantec Security Software

In an apparent response to anti-competition complaints about Microsoft's decision to give away its own Security Essentials software to small businesses, it will now give away Symantec software instead to Windows buyers - but only for a limited time and only at one retailer, PC Mall.

"Microsoft is now offering free Symantec security software to small businesses for a limited time, through retailer PC Mall, following some grumbling in response to the free distribution of its own security software.

In October, Microsoft began offering small businesses free copies of Microsoft Security Essentials for as many as 10 PCs. It has also started letting customers download the software from Windows Update."