Free Software Foundation protests Microsoft 'Secure Boot'

Software freedom advocates have launched an online campaign to dissuade Microsoft and computer hardware makers from implementing a “Secure Boot" mechanism for Microsoft’s upcoming flagship OS Windows 8, which they said would bar other OSes. The Free Software Foundation (FSF) hinted at a boycott of Microsoft and hardware partners if they implement “Secure Boot," which they said should be called “Restricted Boot" instead. “We, the undersigned, urge all computer makers implementing UEFI’s so-called ‘Secure Boot’ to do it in a way that allows free software operating systems to be installed. To respect user freedom and truly protect user security, manufacturers must either allow computer owners to disable the boot restrictions, or provide a sure-fire way for them to install and run a free software operating system of their choice," it said in a public statement. Online support floods in It vowed to boycott computers that deny users the freedom to install the software of their choice. “We commit that we will neither purchase nor recommend computers that strip users of this critical freedom, and we will actively urge people in our communities to avoid such jailed systems," it said. As of 5:00 p.m. (in Manila), the statement had already gathered over 6,000 online signatures. The FSF noted Microsoft had announced that if computer makers wish to distribute machines with the Windows 8 compatibility logo, they have to implement a measure called “Secure Boot." The problem with Secure Boot “Secure Boot" is designed to protect against malware by preventing computers from loading unauthorized binary programs when booting. Such a setup makes sure computers will not boot unauthorized operating systems, including initially authorized systems that have been modified without being re-approved. But FSF said the user should able to authorize the programs he or she wants to use, so he or she can run free software written and modified by herself or people he or she trusts. “(We) are concerned that Microsoft and hardware manufacturers will implement these boot restrictions in a way that will prevent users from booting anything other than Windows. In this case, we are better off calling the technology Restricted Boot, since such a requirement would be a disastrous restriction on computer users and not a security feature at all," it said. Installing GNU/Linux might be impossible A separate article on PC World quoted FSF Executive Director John Sullivan as saying it may soon become impossible for the average user to install GNU/Linux on any new computer. “Secure Boot could all too easily become a euphemism for restriction and control by computer makers and Microsoft--freedom and security necessitate users being in charge of their own computers," he said. PC World said Linux users in Australia have already complained to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) about Microsoft’s plans. — TJD, GMA News