The War for your online desktop

By Staff writers, PC Authority

Print this story

You thought Microsoft was only concerned about Google’s search engine being way more popular than MSN Search? That appears to be the tip of the iceberg, if Google’s latest services gain a foothold on the desktop market.

After the recently launched Google Calandar and the acquisition of online word processor, Writely, Google’s launch of its own online Excel-type spreadsheet program is the latest salvo in what’s being increasingly seen as a declaration of war for desktop dominance.

Meanwhile, rumours continue to circulate about Google’s next move, which include unlimited online storage, voice-over-IP, music and payment system (see From Ebay to GBuy). If the rumours are to be believed, then Google and its products would be accessible on any computer or device with an Internet connection.

But Microsoft hasn’t been sitting still either, with its launch of the Windows Live service. Windows Live will tie together Office programs, email and files into an online hub, offering a virtual desktop no matter where your physical location is.

Critics aren’t in complete agreement about the trend in online applications. One of the chief concerns is that Web browsers, HTML and even new technologies like AJAX, are simply inappropriate platforms to build complex applications in – many apps simply work better on the desktop.

But despite these criticisms, there’s little doubt that more applications will move online. Just be prepared to trade off features, speed and complexity for the convenience.

Print this story

Related Features

	Silverlight for Business

	Why go mobile?

	Can you run your business on Google?

	The complete guide to Microsoft Office 2007

	Microsoft training videos an unexpected treasure

	The Google Office

	Office 2007: The whys and ways of upgrading

	Office 2007: Fit for business?

A LIST - the best of the best

Printers

The War for your online desktop

HP Color LaserJet CP3505x

Brother HL-4040CN

Clearswift MIMEsweeper CSW250

HP StorageWorks Ultrium 1840

Evesham SilverEDGE 1000SL