(Column) - Recently, Google has done lots of things to upset Microsoft. It even went to the extent of poaching some of its top talent, which landed Google into trouble with the legal system. It seems Microsoft has had about enough and is trying to strike back, albeit in a muted sort of way.

Microsoft recently announced its plans to avail two online services to its users: Windows Live and Office Live. While Windows Live will currently remain under "Beta", Office Live will be made available to small businesses strictly by invitation.

Windows Live gives you a few basic services that aren’t exactly a breakthrough in technology. However, the overall integration of these services is what makes the whole concept an attempt to short circuit Google’s world domination plans.

At ideas.live.com, you’ll find access to Windows Live Messenger, an attempt to short circuit Google Talk perhaps, Live Favorites that allows you to store all your favorite websites on Microsoft’s servers, Windows Live Mail, which we believe would tackle GMail (So far, I’ve not been able to try it, as it’s invitation only, but I’ll keep you updated on its progress), and the Security Center would let you scan your computer using an online database.

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