Microsoft is launching a PC security subscription service - Windows Live OneCare - for protecting the much-attacked Windows operating system, writes the Associated Press. The service will protect up to three computers for $49.95 a year, and will now place Microsoft in competition with erstwhile partner software security businesses such as Symantec and McAfee.

Windows Live OneCare offers not only antivirus protection but also system optimization and backup software, writes vnunet.com. "I am trying to help consumers understand that OneCare is much more than [anti-virus]," Dennis Bonsall, director of Windows Live OneCare, is quoted as saying. Bonsall says only 10 percent of PC users back up their data - but 80 percent of OneCare early testers did so.

Microsoft is talking to computer manufacturers to have the software bundled with new systems, but would not offer details. OneCare is available only in the U.S. for now.