New Windows could be blocked

SECURITY software firm Symantec is trying to block Microsoft from releasing its new Vista Windows operating system, claiming the company has stolen trade secrets.

In a federal court action in Seattle, it accuses Microsoft of using Symantec’s technology to develop its own competing features and products, and also claims Microsoft is in breach of contract related to a licensing deal with Veritas, which Symantec acquired last year.

Symantec wants an injunction to block the further development, sale or distribution of Vista - the already-delayed next version of Windows seen as crucial for Microsoft to move ahead in the face of growing competition from the likes of Google.

‘Microsoft’s pervasive and continuing disregard of Symantec’s intellectual property and contract rights has irreparably harmed Symantec and constitutes trade secret misappropriation,’ the complaint says.

Microsoft said in a statement it worked hard to try to resolve the dispute and that it acted within its rights in the contract.

‘We are confident that our actions are wholly consistent with the legal agreements between Veritas and Microsoft and that these claims will be shown to be without merit,’ it added.

Symantec has in the past worked together with Microsoft, but the software giant’s decision to release its own security products sets the two head-to-head.

©2006 Associated Newspapers Ltd