I’m going to describe what people think about Microsoft. Ordinary people don't pay too much attention to software and hardware tools. I think that this is how Microsoft exploits them. While people argue, debate, and even sue Microsoft's dominance in the free market about Web browsers and operating systems, MS tries to control the hearts and minds of the people who create the software by taking its monopolistic position. I don’t understand why Microsoft wants to control developers and stamp out competition. As time goes on, it will become more and more difficult for developers to compete.

Now I will explain how MS uses its monopoly. The fact is that most of personal computers existing in the world are using MS’s operating systems. This is unbelievable. Even though programmers don’t like to use MS’ operating systems, they must develop programs under it. Hardware developers also have to lobby in order to get support from new MS’s operating systems. When MS sets the standard of size and functions, many computer companies have to follow that path.

I can understand how they have complaints against MS’s monopoly so far.  Under the its monopoly, MS randomly sets the price; therefore, it can be one of big reasons for the increase and decrease of computer price including Windows. I will show an example. Even though software is well developed, it might be difficult to compete with a free one. If some companies sell their products which are included, probably consumers tend to use them. Here is a popular example, NETSCAPE and EXPLORER.

Actually Netscape is the very brilliant browser, and came out earlier than the Explorer. At the beginning of 1990’s most of internet users were using it; however, MS noticed the potential internet market and attempted to sell Windows that included  a free MS Explorer. As a result, Netscape started to collapse and consolidate with an on-line company. In the fact Explorer looks like it was included in Windows as free. But this is already included in the windows price before it sold to consumers. So, MS drove Netscape out of business by using the advantage of its monopoly.

Now I can suggest a possible solution. The way we can protect many companies from the monopolistic MS is to split up MS. I think that would be the best solution. If we split it up, Microsoft also couldn't use its Windows monopoly to force computer makers not to carry competing products. A split isn't necessarily bad for Microsoft in the long run. I think that all the little companies might end up becoming worth more than Microsoft as a whole. So if Microsoft is forced to split up, it doesn't necessarily mean they lose. Just they are operating as separated companies.

August 2003