MS trial: Microsoft feared an Internet dominated by Netscape

Microsoft Vice President Cameron Myhrvold took the stand for the second time on Wednesday, explaining that the company feared an Internet dominated by Netscape and their proprietary technology. Myhrvold, who was directly responsible for deals with Internet Service Providers (ISPs), admitted that Microsoft was afraid users would choose Netscape over IE and therefore forced ISPs to bundle only IE.

Microsoft spokesperson Mark Murray says that the ISP deals need to be understood in context.

"Netscape was the most popular, most well-known product, and it wouldn't have mattered if our product was technically superior. We were coming from behind," he said. "There was never any foreclosure of Netscape Navigator from the channel."

It's an important distinction, because a key part of the DOJ's case is that Microsoft forced ISPs into exclusionary contracts.