Microsoft signs up Downing Street

By Alun Williams

Posted on 3 Feb 2003 at 12:09

The UK has officially signed up to participate in Microsoft's Government Security Program (GSP).

This program - unveiled in the New Year - provides government bodies with controlled access to Windows source code.

The GSP is a no-fee initiative that will let participants review Windows source code using a special review tool. In addition to the code access, Microsoft will also be providing technical documentation and support.

The idea is to help reassure government organisations over the security and content of Windows systems - 'to simulate threats and assess vulnerabilities' in the words of Microsoft. 'In talking with government customers, we've been told this is a key capability that they need and we responded,' said Craig Mundie at the time, chief technology officer for advanced strategies and policy at Microsoft.

'Partnership agreements such as the one I have signed with Microsoft are key to the risk management of the National Information Infrastructure,' said Andrew Pinder, the UK e-Envoy. 'By allowing us access to their source-code we will be using the knowledge gained, together with the rest of our experience, to make sure that a greater range of products meet the UK government's information assurance needs.'

As we reported a fortnight ago, the Russian government was the first to sign up, following in the path of NATO. Microsoft is reportedly in discussions with the governments of 20 other countries.