MS plans to enter cloud computing

Software major Microsoft is planning to enter the area of cloud computing in a big way. This week, it will offer free software enabling those using Windows operating systems to connect with Windows Live services in the Web. Cloud computing is geek lingo for virtual desktops which can be accessed from anywhere. MS, which sells desktop software, has identified it as a major threat of the future.
With companies such as Google offering storage facilities in the Web, MS obviously cannot fall behind. It has already laun-ched a Skydrive service which offers Hotmail users storage of up to 500 MB. MS does not want to lose customers to Google and others and is aiming to build up a model which will integrate desktop software with internet services.