Days Numbered For AssetMetrix's Windows Reporting

Unbiased information on IT products is often hard to come by, so it's sad to see what looks like the end of AssetMetrix. Microsoft has agreed to buy the Canadian hardware and software asset management vendor, which is known for its detailed reports on Windows penetration in the workplace. Under its new owner, it's unlikely those reports would continue, given that they haven't always been helpful to the Redmond, Wash., software maker.In 2003, for example, the company reported that Windows 98 users would still face serious security risks after Microsoft stopped supporting the product. As a result of pressure from customers, Microsoft decided to continue supporting the OS until June 30 of this year.

There's no indication Microsoft decided to buy the company to silence the reporting. Instead, it's more likely the purchase is to acquire the company's technology, according to AssetMetrix co-founder Steve O'Halloran, who recently left the company.

Nevertheless, there's no advantage to Microsoft in continuing with the AssetMetrix reports, so they're likely to go away, along with the company's business.

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