J-Walk & Associates, Inc.

Microsoft Has A Download Store

Always the trendsetter... MS Windows, Office available to download.

Although Microsoft launched it quietly in the UK last June, its online store offering Windows and more for download is finally opening in the US.

That the Microsoft Store is only now going live in the company's home market may come as a surprise in an age when even corner shops have an online presence.

Still, it's not exactly straightforward - downloads are available and can be accessed multiple times, of course, but aren't exactly permanent.

Unlike physical disks that can be used until they wear out, MS grants access to the product "until mainstream support ends", which is "typically five years", according to program manager Trevin Chow.

Here it is: Microsoft Store.

This store is obviously intended for people who must have the software immediately, and don't mind paying the full list price. For example, you'll pay $680 for Office Ultimate 2007. Or, buy it for $400 at Amazon.com.