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Technology Stocks : MSFT Internet Explorer vs. NSCP Navigator -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: nommedeguerre who wrote (15443)	12/23/1997 4:00:00 PM
From: odd lot	Read Replies (2) \| Respond to of 24154

The debate that has raged on in the various MSFT threads in SI dramatically illustrates that there are no easy answers regarding DOJ vs. MSFT (although those on either pole of the debate will disagree, of course). However, it seems clear that DOJ and MSFT competitors are determined that MSFT is not going to own the internet "golden goose" that appears to be on the horizon. There is too much money at stake. I consider this unfortunate, because as a user, I support more integration of apps and utilities into the basic operating system. I do not look back fondly on trying to learn the ins & outs of 3rd party memory managers, defraggers, etc. I like the concept of having the browser as part of the OS, as web sites will then become part of the desktop landscape just like drives, folders, files, etc. Once we have the bandwidth to really support this, many users will want this convenience, rather than loading up or switching to a browser whenever they want to go to the internet. But it looks like this will not be allowed to happen, because it gives MSFT too much potential for abuse, and there is the concern that they will become stagnant and charge exorbitant prices, like any classic monopolist. But the irony is that MSFT has been following the path that many users want. My guess is that their business model supports a continuation of making the computer "experience" easier and less expensive for end-users, because there is still a ton of money to be made selling inexpensive and fully featured software to the world. It is an assumption (albeit a reasonable one based on economic history, but an assumption nonetheless) that they will act like a classic monopolist. Some will say that MSFT's behavior in trying to protect the OS dynasty is monopolistic, but I think that users want one OS, not a choice of many. DOJ and MSFT competitors/detractors claim that consumer choice is what this is all about, but that is pure BS. It is all about money and power, and I think that consumers will ultimately lose.