Two of the biggest security software manufacturers, Symantec and McAfee, are stepping up their accusations that Microsoft’s Windows Vista blocks their software. Microsoft will include antivirus and anti-spyware software with the new OS, better security being a primary reason for the release. In addition, they have closed off access to the “Windows kernel”, the primary way that security software products gain access to detect and block rootkits, keystroke-logging software, and worms. The trouble with the kernel is that it becomes a loophole that allows malware creators to exploit those same interfaces, a threat that Microsoft says outweighs the benefits. Symantec and McAfee say the move undercuts their products at a convenient time – when Microsoft is entering the desktop security software market.

Addressing competitive concerns, Microsoft held an online meeting with security companies last week. But the conference crashed shortly after it started, and Symantec and McAfee were not able to get back in. While many are saying this is just a coincidence, it does beg the question, while Microsoft is clearly very serious about improving the level of security in Vista, how serious are they about outreaching to security companies?