MS Rolls Out Suite of Windows Live Services

Microsoft introduced on Wednesday a suite of Windows Live online services bundled into a single download in its latest effort to compete with Google Inc's growing array of applications delivered over the Web.

Microsoft released a test, or "beta," version of a free online software package available in a single download that includes versions of e-mail, instant messaging, photo gallery, blogging software and a security program.

The suite of Web services - available at http://get.live.com/wl/all - will also automatically update with improvements or new versions of those applications.

Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft said this lays the foundation for other integrated Windows Live services due out in the "coming months."

The world's largest software maker aims to extend its dominance in desktop software running on computer hard drives into a new world of services delivered through a Web browser.

However, it faces a nimble and deep-pocketed rival in Google, which is also attempting to deliver an integrated experience using a single log-in to offer e-mail, calendar, productivity software and other services.