When Microsoft announced Microsoft Security Essentials, its new free antivirus software designed to replace Windows Live OneCare, it was treated with contempt by the vendors of both other free antivirus software and the paid-for security suites. But a recent testing of the most popular antivirus products placed MSE on a par with the paid-for products and above its free competitors.

Touch technology is one of the main selling points of Windows 7, but it had been questionable how widely it would actually be used. It appears that touch will at least stand a chance of catching on with the announcement that HP is releasing a range of machines based on the feature.

Windows 7 is almost here, with just two weeks until Microsoft’s latest operating system is unleashed on the great unwashed. Everything has so far gone swimmingly, with a good beta testing and very positive reviews from people who should know what they’re talking about. But wait a goddamn minute. Is there any chance that Windows 7 could turn out to be another Vista?

Microsoft’s new search tool Bing is up and running a couple of days ahead of schedule. But it looks suspiciously like it isn’t finished yet.

The general public will have to wait until May 5 to get their hands on Windows 7 RC1. The press and Web sites are being given early access to it. Being a writer for this site does have some privileges and I was able to download the RC early. Here are some first impressions, but a full review will be coming later.