Microsoft's Security Essentials Beta Is MIA

Microsoft introduced its free, beta version of Microsoft Security Essentials yesterday -- and if you didn't get it then, you can't download it today.

A message on Microsoft's site says, "We are not accepting additional participants at this time. Please check back at later a date for possible additional availability."

The beta was aimed at simplifying PC security, generally for personal PC users, rather than enterprise customers. Microsoft Security Essentials beta provides protection against viruses and spyware, including Trojans, worms and other malicious software. Security Essentials runs in the background, only alerting the user if there's an issue that needs attention. There are no costs or subscriptions associated with the beta version.

Microsoft Security Essentials, formerly called Morro, is basically the antimalware component of Microsoft's subscription security service, Windows Live OneCare, without the utility applications and the $50 annual fee. Windows Live OneCare will no longer be available after June 30, according to Microsoft.

According to Microsoft, updates and upgrades will be automatic, and users will be able to tell easily whether they are protected -- a green Security Essentials icon indicates that the system is protected.

Microsoft Essentials runs on Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3); Windows Vista; and Windows 7 (beta or Release Candidate). For Windows XP, the PC must have a CPU with clock speed of 500MHz or higher and memory of at least 256 MB RAM. For Windows Vista and Windows 7, a CPU with clock speed of 1.0GHz or higher and memory of 1 GB RAM or higher is required.

This beta is (or was) available only to customers in the U.S., United Kingdom, Israel, China and Brazil.