Microsoft Windows OneCare

Microsoft is planning to implement a new subscription service for home PC users that would change the way it charges users of the Windows operating system and provide itself with a new source of revenue.

The service, called Windows OneCare, will provide virus and spyware protection along with other services to make PCs run faster, according to the company.

This new plan is the first time Microsoft has tried to move away form a one-time license fee to use its operating system.

The features of the new service will include automatic file back-up and software tools such as disk-clean up and decrementing of the hard drive that would periodically run to keep the system operating smoothly.

Security features are expected to be a big selling point of the new service, especially in light of recent criticisms of Microsoft for leaving users of Windows vulnerable to viruses and spyware.

Microsoft said that a test version of the service would be available later this year, but declined to say when the service would be formally launched.