【UNIT 5.】Secret Codes

※Article :

Microsoft code leaked on web

Microsoft tries to keep the code for its Windows operating system a closely guarded secret. It's the equivalent of computer DNA and the firm fears if it falls into the wrong hands it could be used to infiltrate millions of computers worldwide. More than ninety percent of the world's PCs run Windows.

The code which has appeared on the web appears to be the basis of Windows 2000 and Windows NT. But massive programs such as Windows are complicated and difficult for all but the most sophisticated hackers to understand.

The other threat to Microsoft is that rival software firms could copy parts of the code and use it in similar programmes. Microsoft says it has contacted the law enforcement authorities to investigate how the data leaked out.

Earlier this week the company said that a critical flaw in the latest version of Windows could leave PCs vulnerable to hackers. It has urged home users and firms to download a free software repair patch from its website to fix the problem.


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※Summary:

Microsoft keeps its secret of computer DNA--the statements written in a programming language that the computer later uses. The firm fears that millions of computers around the world would be infiltrated if it is fallen into wrong hands. The code seems to be the most important element of Windows 2000 and Windows NT. Although the large and complex programs with thousand of lines of code are difficult for hackers, Microsoft still has great pressure from other competing companies. Microsoft says it has contacted the law enforcement authorities to make investigation how the data became know to people outside Microsoft.

※Reaction:

I enjoy watching the movie The Matrix, it is one of my favorite scientific fiction movies. It is about hacker-like people going through the Internet, and the war between different groups of peoples. I have to say the daydreaming times are fantastic, but what would happen if one day it really came true? Simply virus travel through Internet causes annoying troubles, I couldn't imagine how terrible things would be if someone infiltrates my computer!