As Microsoft prods its own MSN Messenger users to upgrade to the latest version of the instant messaging client, it's also beginning to crack down on companies that access its IM network without authorization.
The Redmond, Wash. software giant is requiring that Messenger users install the latest version of the software, which uses a different -- and, spokespeople say, more secure -- authentication procedure. But the company also is forcing developers of third-party IM software, which enables users to connect to the .NET Messenger Service, to purchase a license for access.
If they don't, unauthorized third-party clients could be cut off on Oct. 15, when Microsoft's network switches to support only the newest protocol in Messenger. To enable third-party IM client developers and companies to apply for authorization, Microsoft has set up a Web form.
"Our hope is to work with the instant messaging community to ensure they understand the importance of delivering a secure network and offer interconnection opportunities to third-party service providers," said MSN Product Manager Larry Grothaus. "Going forward, these more routine business relationships will help ensure the security and stability of our network and that the commercial terms support the respective businesses."
Grothaus didn't specify the process of authorization, nor the terms by which third-party IM providers would have to abide. Instead, he said that Microsoft would follow-up with vendors who have filled out the form "on a case-by-case basis."
"Each request will present unique situations based on the breadth of potential applications and will require individual follow up," he said. "We are in the process of following up with those submissions we have received."
Ken Mayer, chairman and chief executive of enterprise IM player GTV, which also markets branded, multi-network public IM clients, said his company would be willing to pay up if required to buy a license.
"We'd be fine with doing something with them," he said. But, he added that he was uncertain of how the process would work, and has yet to submit the company's information.
"Our hope is that Microsoft works they way they do with MSDN, that they'd just provide an SDK that software companies can pick up for a reasonable price," Mayer added. "I think that everyone across the board wouldn't mind paying a reasonable price to interoperate with these networks, especially if it provides additional security to the end user, which seems to be the guise under which they're requiring this."
Ensuring that GTV can keep its connections to MSN alive is important for the company, which licenses multi-network IM clients to media companies as consumer marketing tools. For radio giant Clear Channel Communications' hit New York station, "Z100," GTV created a branded client with connections to a proprietary network as well as support for MSN, AOL, and Yahoo!.
Other companies making money from their cross-network IM clients don't share the same point of view, however.
Cerulean Studios, developer of the best-known multi-network IM client for Windows, did not respond to requests for comment. However, in a statement, it said it would continue to upgrade its IM clients to bypass Microsoft's attempts to cut-off service.
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