I just ran WindowsUpdate to install some fixes to Msft bugs that allow intruders to seize my computer. To get the fix, I have to agree to a license agreement with some curious properties. First, Msft makes it very difficult to save the agreement for later viewing. It has specially rigged the dialog box so that I cannot copy and paste the text. Next, it has clauses like this:

You may not disclose the results of any benchmark test of the .NET framework component of the OS Components to any third party without Microsoft's prior written approval.

So if the fix causes my computer to be dog slow, I am prohibited from complaining about it on this blog! It also says, "All rights not expressly granted are reserved by Microsoft.

So Msft interprets the law to say that it is allowed to prohibit users from disclosing benchmark results. If so, then Msft presumably has the right to prohibit all sorts of criticisms. Since Msft has not granted me the right to criticize its product, then I guess Msft reserves that right. So I am violating the license agreement by writing this blog!

With the Msft antitrust trial wrapping up, I expect Msft to get bolder in how it tries to restrict users.