Technology

Peer reviewing software

When secret formulas to Windows operating systems leaked onto the internet, it was a hacker's mother lode. Microsoft admitted the historic security breach as fears grew that criminals could use the information to create dangerous new computer attacks.

The stolen code came from Windows 2000 and NT 4.0, two older versions still in use on business and institutional computers. Microsoft said the leak did not come from its internal network—and investigators looked at outside companies that have access to Windows' secrets.

Many Microsoft critics argue that the best way to keep Windows secure is to open its source code to outsiders. It could then be examined for problems, just as academic research is judged by peer review. Microsoft rejects such arguments.