ann hopkins

Although it is possible for consumers to install other browsers onto Windows and use them, critics say that Microsoft still has an unfair advantage. It also keeps other browser companies from being able to consult with PC manufacturers to put their browser on the PC from the beginning. PC manufacturers did not hesitate to comply with Microsoft's new standard because they did not want to lose the ability to manufacture computers with Windows installed on them, as Windows holds a great market share and most consumers only buy PC's with Windows already installed on them. It would be detrimental for a company to refuse compliance of Microsoft's new standard. This is another complaint of critics. That manufacturers had no other choice but to do what Microsoft said, out of fear of their own company losing profits. Microsoft also "pulls the strings" it has with other ISP's and software companies. There is a lot of software that is not made by Microsoft that comes with the Windows package. Some of these include, AOL, Prodigy, AT&T, Quicken, just to name a few. Microsoft gives these companies and their icons and programs are displayed on the Windows desktop. In return, these companies must give preferential treatment in promotion and the like to Microsoft. One example is AOL's new 4.0 browser is specially designed to work best with the Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 browser. Much of the increase in AOL's clientele base can be attributed to the combined efforts of Microsoft and AOL. Microsoft is not only working with ISP's, but also with companies that build and maintain web pages and servers. Microsoft also gives them preferential treatment through Windows and in return, they make their web pages to be compliant with the Microsoft browser. Most web pages even have a little disclaimer that says, "Best viewed with Microsoft IE4.0". In this way, Microsoft can again hold its position in the browser market.