Microsoft is to launch a free-to-download security software package.

Microsoft has announced plans to offer a free anti-malware and security solution to Windows users, to be rolled out in the second half of 2009.

The software, codenamed Morro, will replace Microsoft’s paid-for security and PC management package Windows Live OneCare, which will be discontinued in June 2009.

Morro will be a more streamlined service and is being aimed at computer users with low bandwidth or less powerful PCs. The downloadable software will be compatible with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 operating systems.

Since its launch in 2006, OneCare has been unable to successfully break into the already flooded anti-virus market – only managing to secure less than 2% of the security software market share.

Senior Director of Product Management in the Online Services Division at Microsoft, Amy Barzdukas, said: “Customers around the world have told us that they need comprehensive, ongoing protection from new and existing threats, and we take that concern seriously.

“This new, no-cost offering will give us the ability to protect an even greater number of consumers, especially in markets where the growth of new PC purchases is outpaced only by the growth of malware.”

For more information, visit: http://windowsonecare.spaces.live.com.