Equipt: Microsoft Takes a Stab at Subscription Based Service

Microsoft's latest endeavor is a project unique to its history of software release. Equipt, is a software package that contains various programs Microsoft considers vital to the typical user. One installation sets up all of these programs and provides you with automatic program updates and patches as they are released. Additionally, one subscription allows you installation on up to three computer systems.

Equipt currently contains a number of software applications and services for productivity, security, and social networking. The package includes Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007, a version of the Office suite that contains the most commonly used productivity programs; such as Word and Excel. Another service included is Windows Live OneCare, Microsoft's version of PC protection that includes anti-virus, firewall, and backup utilities. In addition to productivity and security, Equipt also includes various applications designed for socializing; including Workspace, e-mail, messenger, and photo tools for creating and publishing pictures.

Microsoft has used the concept of bundling software applications in the past with their Microsoft Office suite, which allowed you to install a number of productivity applications in one setting. However, this is the first time they have tackled bundling a much broader group of software programs into one package. This concept has proven to be a convenient idea for the typical user. Instead of having to purchase and install each program separately, you can setup a variety of applications at one time with a single installation. This allows you to streamline the process of configuring your computer to fit your needs.