REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 18, 2000 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that the Windows® 2000 operating system will be the first platform with 128-bit encryption to be shipped internationally under the federal regulations on encryption exports announced Jan. 14, 2000. Microsoft worked closely with U.S. government regulators to obtain the necessary approvals to ship Windows 2000 with strong encryption to worldwide customers, irrespective of industry or application.
Previously, international customers with increased security needs had to buy additional software and add on strong encryption. International customers will now be able to benefit from built-in 128-bit encryption in Microsoft® Windows 2000 when it ships. This eliminates delays and restrictions associated with individual export licenses.
“Windows 2000 will be the most secure operating system Microsoft has ever shipped, and we are excited to be able to further extend this security for our international customers via 128-bit encryption,”
said Brian Valentine, senior vice-president of the Windows Division at Microsoft.
“In addition, we are pleased to have worked so closely with the federal government in developing a security solution that benefits all international computer users.”
About Windows 2000
Windows 2000 will enable the next generation of PC computing by providing customers with the easy way to Internet-enable their business using the integrated Web application services, increased scalability and industry-standard security. Windows 2000 will provide a more reliable platform designed for increased system uptime and a more manageable operating system to lower desktop management costs, and will offer more centralized management for servers. In addition, Windows 2000 will enable knowledge workers to take advantage of new devices.
Availability
General availability of Windows 2000 Professional, Windows 2000 Server and Windows 2000 Advanced Server is scheduled to begin Feb. 17, 2000. Windows 2000 Datacenter Server is expected to be available later this year.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) is the worldwide leader in software for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software – any time, any place and on any device
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