On August 5, 2002, Microsoft announced that it would make some concessions towards the proposed final settlement of its antitrust case ahead of the judge's verdict. .
On November 1, 2002, Judge Colleen released a judgment basically accepting the proposed Department of Justice settlement. The involved states, and much of the computer industry, thought of this as just a slap on the wrist. .
When Microsoft issued Windows 95, it did it with a new feature, a web browser called Explorer. It signed contracts with personal computer makers, such as Dell and Compaq, to include the browser and other applications it had added to Windows over the years, when installing the Windows software. Microsoft did not charge for this Windows upgrade and added features. The entire Windows platform, with applications in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, publishing, office networks and browsers represents only five percent of the cost of a personal computer system.
Netscape and others rivals ganged up on Microsoft, not by offering a better product or better terms, but by running to Washington and getting trustbusters to launch an attack and incorporate their grievances. .
Microsoft continued to claim that the government had no proof of its allegations. It believed that the testimonies show that consumers really benefited from "Microsoft's efforts to support the Internet in the Windows operating system (PressPass 2004). Microsoft claimed that it did not have a monopoly, and that technology moves too fast for any company to even try to monopolize. Businesses are allowed to compete. Microsoft's position was as follows:.
Netscape was not prevented from selling or distributing its technology. In 1998, one hundred and sixty million copies of its browser were distributed.
Microsoft's technologies for the Internet are included in the Windows operating system and not sold separately.
Testimony from the government's witness supported that consumers have not been harmed and have actually benefited.
