| IBM has announced that its e-business infrastructure software will support all open internet standards, in a direct challenge to Microsoft and its ambitious .Net internet services strategy.
While IBM supports Microsoft operating systems and applications, it has become the leading advocate for the free Linux operating system, the fastest-growing in the market and the main challenger to Microsoft Windows. IBM also plans to offer tools for developers to create new types of internet-based e-business services and applications.
“This is different from Microsoft’s .Net approach. I don’t believe you can brand an architecture, and customers don’t have to wait for .Net but can start now,” said Steve Mills, head of IBM Software Group.
IBM’s strength is in “middleware” software that provides the infrastructure to connect corporate software applications. This is essential in allowing legacy systems to work with newer internet-enabled e-business applications. IBM’s goal is to help companies develop “web services,” complex internet-based applications that handle business processes automatically.
Microsoft has taken a different approach with its .Net initiative because it lacks IBM’s strength in middleware or consultantcy. It is focusing on development tools that allow companies to build next-generation e-business systems around its operating systems. | 
