Jordanian Government gets access to Windows and Office source code

The GSP agreement provides the government of Jordan with access to Windows and Office source code as well as detailed Operating System technical information and guarantees around the clock technical support directly from Microsoft corp.

H.E. Dr. Zu'bi said: "Microsoft has listened to our security needs and responded to them with this program. It has recognized that in matters ranging from national defence to protection of our citizens' personal data, we must place security at the forefront of our information-technology requirements. The Government Security Program (GSP) addresses not only our unique security requirements, but it also allows us to protect our investments in value added software components and applications running on the Microsoft platform."

Launched in January 2003, the GSP is one key facet in Microsoft's efforts to address the unique security requirements of governments throughout the world providing governments access to the Windows and Office Operating System source code and technical information they need to be confident in the security of Software platforms. Since its launch, more than 34 governments around the world are partnering in this program with the rights to review and access key Microsoft source code.

The GSP also enables government personnel to work jointly with Microsoft professionals for the purposes of validating the security of Microsoft Software. In addition to source access, the GSP provides for the disclosure of technical information about the Windows and Office Platform, for faster in Country integration of Microsoft's platform to key Government application.

Finally, the agreement promotes increased cooperation between World-Wide Microsoft security professionals and global government partners, providing opportunities for Jordan Government programmers to visit Microsoft development facilities in Redmond, Washington. These trips enable reviews of various code releases of Windows and Office development, testing and deployment processes. Microsoft resources will be available to discuss existing and potential projects the Government of Jordan is deploying on the Microsoft Platform, and to interact with Jordan developers.

Maggie Wilderotter said: "At Microsoft, we view governments that utilize our software as trusted partners. The Government Security Program will provide the Jordan Government with the opportunity to use our source code to assess the security and integrity of the Microsoft products they deploy. In addition to source code access we are providing technical documentation, methods for troubleshooting, access to cryptographic tools, and access to Microsoft's top expert support technicians who can collaborate with agencies on how they use this source code access."