Microsoft Broke U.S. Antitrust Law, Judge Says
By John Virata

WASHINGTON - Federal District Court Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson ruled that Microsoft Corp., the world's largest maker of PC software, and the dominant provider of PC operating systems, abused its monopoly in PC computer operating systems and violated key components of the Sherman Act.

The court found that Microsoft has "waged an unlawful campaign in defense of its monopoly position in the market for operating systems designed to run on Intel-compatible personal computers ("PCs"). Specifically, the plaintiffs contend that Microsoft violated §2 of the Sherman Act by engaging in a series of exclusionary, anticompetitive, and predatory acts to maintain its monopoly power. They also assert that Microsoft attempted, albeit unsuccessfully to date, to monopolize the Web browser market, likewise in violation of §2. Finally, they contend that certain steps taken by Microsoft as part of its campaign to protect its monopoly power, namely tying its browser to its operating system and entering into exclusive dealing arrangements, violated § 1 of the Act. ``The court concludes that Microsoft maintained its monopoly power by anticompetitive means and attempted to monopolize the web browser market,''

Jackson wrote in his 43-page ruling.

For Judge Jackson's Finding of Fact, click here

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