Microsoft Launches Code-Sharing Program With GovernmentsMicrosoft Launches Code-Sharing Program With Governments

Microsoft this week launched a program to allow international governments controlled access to Windows source code for security auditing purposes. The move follows high-profile government decisions endorsing Linux for security reasons.

Microsoft on Tuesday launched the Government Security Program, part of an overall effort to attempt to address the security concerns of governments. Russia and NATO have signed GSP agreements, and Microsoft says it's in discussion with 20 other countries about the program.

The Government Security Program is a no-fee initiative tailored to governments, Microsoft said. In addition to source access, Microsoft will disclose other technical information about Windows and promote collaboration between Microsoft security staff and program participants.

Participants will also be invited to visit Microsoft development facilities in Redmond, Wash., and review aspects of Windows source-code development, testing, and deployment. They'll also be able to discuss existing and pending projects with Microsoft security experts.

Last year, the National Security Agency developed a secure version of Linux and posted it on the agency's Web site for anyone to download. Brazil, China, Finland, France, Germany, Peru, the Philippines, and Taiwan all have Linux and open-source initiatives.

Government open-source advocates say they can't be assured of the security of software unless they can examine the source code. Additionally, countries are concerned about being beholden to a U.S. company for key national infrastructure.

Defense contractor Mitre Corp. endorsed Linux and open source as key to national security in a 2002 report commissioned by the Department of Defense.