In Windows 2000 imported to Russia Microsoft has decided to drop some fragments disapproved by the Federal Agency on Government Communication and Information (FAPSI).
Published:
19 February 2000 y., Saturday
The main feature that makes the Windows 2000 operating system different from previous versions is the 128-bit encryption software, but it will not be included in versions imported into Russia. The irony is that just a few years ago the export of such software from the US was strictly forbidden, because the US National Security Agency feared that the FAPSI or the Chinese would crack it. The FAPSI and the Chinese, for their part, called for an import ban on the 128-bit keys because they doubted they could crack them. All this has had a negative effect on Microsoft sales.
At one point the debate on the encryption software included in Windows 2000 acquired the scale and intensity of the millennium bug debate. It was widely believed that the FAPSI would never agree to import software it is unable to crack, while the ambitious Microsoft would not alter its global strategy for the sake of Russia alone, especially since the country largely relies on pirated Microsoft products.
Certain psychological factors have influenced the outcome of the issue. Had the FAPSI banned the import of encryption software to Russia altogether, it would have amounted to an unconditional surrender to the NSA. FAPSI could not possibly admit that 128-bit keys are unbreakable. On the other hand, Microsoft is a commercial body, not a national secret service it makes no difference to them if Russians are happy to acquire substandard software, just as long as they pay for it.
On Thursday morning Microsoft issued an official statement saying that the company had consulted the FAPSI about the possible restrictions on the import of 128-bit encryption software. The FAPSI and Microsoft have agreed that pending the result of consultations, the FAPSI would not impose any restrictions on the import of Windows 2000. However, in accordance with Russian law, Microsoft has decided to exclude 128-bit software from its Russian exports. The encryption software in question will not be included in either the Russian or English versions of Windows 2000 available to Russian wholesalers and retailers.
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