In order to achieve its strategic goals eventually, Microsoft Corp. may need to substantially alter its tactics. One of the first examples of such changes may be prolongation of Windows XP sales for low-cost personal computers or even introduce a special operating system for such machines.

Microsoft Corp. indisputably wants to popularize its Windows Vista operating system (OS) in order to compete head-to-head for casual and style-demanding end-users against Apple Computer’s Mac OS X. However, it is also an indisputable fact that Microsoft needs to take actions against Linux expansion in basic desktops, but Windows Vista operating system is too demanding for low-end personal computers of today.

Modern entry-level computers come with single-core low-speed microprocessor, 512MB or even less random access memory (RAM), up 2GB – 12GB of storage space, very basic graphics core and low-resolution display. Meanwhile, Microsoft Windows Vista needs higher-speed microprocessor, better dual-core chip, 1GB or more memory, 15GB – 30GB of storage for OS alone as well as higher resolution screen and DirectX 9-compatible graphics sub-system.

There are several ways for Microsoft to target entry-level systems:

• Continue to sell Windows XP operating system.
• Develop a Windows XP derivative tailored for low-cost mobile devices.
• Develop a Windows Vista derivative with dramatically lower system requirements.
• Wait for personal computers to become more powerful and start pushing Windows Vista.

According to InfoWorld web-site, Microsoft plans to continue selling Windows XP operating system for entry-level systems after the 30^th of June, 2008, the date after which the software giant wanted to cease selling XP licenses.

The decision, if there is any, will allow Microsoft to address the rapidly growing market of low-cost machines that have been getting a lot of hype amid fears about economic recession in the USA as well as strong demand from developing countries.

Microsoft did not comment on the news-story.