PC security is one aspect that increasingly concerns Microsoft, and as a proof of that, the company announced plans to introduce a new consumer security service to provide anti-malware protection, for absolutely no charge. The solution, which was code-named “Morro,” will become available in the second half of 2009, and promises to address common problems such as viruses, spyware, rootkits and Trojans.

The fifth volume of the Microsoft Security Intelligence Report made available earlier this month revealed that the total amount of malware and potentially unwanted software removed from computers worldwide grew over 43 percent during the first half of this year. Furthermore, the report also warned about the continuous rise in both Trojan downloaders and high-severity vulnerabilities, elements that represent a threat for both consumers and businesses.

Microsoft found that while infection rates were higher in developing countries, compared to developed countries, the same rates also decreased in computers with higher service pack levels.

But if businesses afford to protect themselves with up-to-date security solutions, some consumers don’t. Microsoft explained the need of Morro emerged from the need to find a PC security solution specifically tailored to the demands of emerging markets, smaller PC form factors and the increasing incidence of malware.

Morro, which will be offered at no charge, will be designed for less powerful PCs or for low-bandwidth scenarios, using fewer computer resources. As Amy Barzdukas, senior director of product management for the Online Services and Windows Division at Microsoft, pointed out, the new service will give Microsoft the possibility to protect even more consumers, especially in markets where the growth of new PC purchases is outpaced only by the growth in malware.

The company explained that in order to focus on Morro, they will gradually discontinue retail sales for Windows Live OneCare subscription service as of June 2009, as Morro kicks in. While Windows Live OneCare also provides a series of non-security features, Morro will focus exclusively on anti-malware features, without using too many system resources.

“Because uptake of standard anti-malware is low around the world, particularity in developing nations, the availability of basic protection for anyone who wants it is all the more important,” said Roger Kay, founder and president of Endpoint Technologies Associates. “By offering such basic protection at no charge to the consumer, Microsoft is promoting a safer environment for PCs, service providers and e-commerce itself, since it is through unprotected PCs that the worst threats are introduced to the system as a whole.”

Microsoft said Morro is based on the same award-winning malware protection engine as in its current line of security products, and that it will basically include the same core anti-malware functions, but with no additional features that are usually found in many consumer security suites. The security service will be available as a stand-alone download in the second half of 2009, and will be compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 operating systems.