(PR NEWSWIRE) Microsoft Announces Government Security Program
Microsoft Announces Government Security Program
Program Allows for Robust Security Audits of Windows Platform
REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- National governments and
their principal agencies face more serious security threats than other
technology consumers do. In matters ranging from national defense to
protection of citizens' personal data, national governments must place
security at the forefront of their information technology requirements.
Recognizing this, Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) today announced the
Government Security Program (GSP), a global initiative that provides national
governments with controlled access to Microsoft(R) Windows(R) source code and
other technical information they need to be confident in the enhanced security
features of the Windows platform. The GSP is one integral element in
Microsoft's efforts to address the unique security requirements of governments
and international organizations throughout the world. Russia and NATO have
already signed GSP agreements with Microsoft, and the company is in
discussions with more than 20 countries about their interest in the program.
Participation in the GSP will be disclosed at the discretion of each
government signatory, and Microsoft is committed to honoring confidentiality
where necessary.
(Photo: newscom.com )
"IT security is a chief concern, and the unavailability of source code and
other technical information and the lack of partnership opportunities limited
the desire of governmental authorities of the Russian Federation to use
Microsoft products," said Boris Girichev, general director of Atlas, which was
authorized by the Federal Agency for Governmental Communication and
Information (FAGCI) to sign the GSP agreement with Microsoft. "This agreement
is a significant step forward in addressing our IT security requirements. It
better enables governmental authorities of the Russian Federation to deploy
and maintain secure computing infrastructures."
While some Microsoft source-licensing programs are available to everyone,
the Government Security Program is tailored to the specialized security
requirements of governments. The GSP is a no-fee initiative that enables
program participants to review Windows source code using a code review tool
(subject to certain license restrictions). In addition to source access, the
GSP provides for the disclosure of technical information about the Windows
platform, enhancing governments' ability to build and deploy computing
infrastructures with strong security technologies in place. The program also
promotes increased communication and collaboration between Microsoft security
professionals and program participants, providing opportunities to visit
Microsoft development facilities in Redmond and review various aspects of
Windows source-code development, testing and deployment processes; discuss
existing and potential projects with Microsoft security experts; and generally
interact with and provide feedback directly to Microsoft staff.
The Government Security Program is a crucial element of Microsoft's
efforts to address the unique requirements of governments around the world. In
2001, Microsoft launched the Shared Source Initiative, expanding its long-
standing efforts to make Windows source code more transparent to trusted
partners and customers. In 2002, the company announced its Trustworthy
Computing initiative, placing security at the core of all Windows development
efforts.
The GSP also supports and builds on the Common Criteria (CC)
certification, a globally accepted independent standard for evaluating the
security features and capabilities of information technology products. Windows
2000 achieved CC certification last October for the broadest set of real-world
scenarios yet achieved by any operating system, as defined by the Common
Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation (CCITSE). Whereas the
CC certification provides a common set of requirements that enable customers
worldwide to objectively evaluate the security functions of IT products and
systems, the GSP takes this a step further by providing national governments
with the information they need to conduct robust security analyses and audits
of Microsoft's Windows products.
"At Microsoft, we view governments that utilize our software as trusted
partners. The Government Security Program will provide governments with the
opportunity to assess the security and integrity of the Microsoft products
they deploy. In talking with government customers, we've been told this is a
key capability that they need and we responded," said Craig Mundie, chief
technology officer and senior vice president for advanced strategies and
policy at Microsoft. "In addition to source code access we are providing
technical documentation, methods for troubleshooting, access to cryptographic
tools subject to export controls, and access to Microsoft expert support
technicians who can collaborate with governments on how they use this source
code access."
Additional information about the GSP is available on Microsoft's PressPass
Web site at microsoft.com . More information about
Microsoft's Shared Source Initiative, Trustworthy Computing program and the
Common Criteria certification awarded to Windows 2000 can be found at
microsoft.com and microsoft.com.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services
and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company
offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people
through great software -- any time, any place and on any device.
NOTE: Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the
trademarks of their respective owners.
SOURCE Microsoft Corp.
-0- 01/14/2003
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Corp./
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