Microsoft has said it will provide free customer support, a new online security tool kit and extensive customer service through a programme called Get Secure, in its attempt to combat computer viruses.

The software giant also said that a longer-term, second phase of the programme, Stay Secure, will be rolled out within the next 60 days.

The tool kit includes patches and service packs that address the security vulnerabilities in Windows NT and 2000 and ensure that new patches are automatically installed by way of the Windows Update feature. Also included is an Internet Information Server (IIS) Lockdown tool and documentation.

The service packs and tools will also be available on CD within the next six weeks.

As part of the Stay Secure effort, Microsoft will deliver cumulative patches for Windows 2000 on a bimonthly basis. The first patches will be available in the next 60 days, according to the company.

In addition, it will expand the scope of its efforts to improve all Microsoft product security through its Secure Windows Initiative Program, as well as improve the code in IIS and ensure that it is installed it in the more secure lockdown mode by default.

Brian Valentine, senior vice president of Windows, said it had become clear that viruses and worms directed against Microsoft customers are on the increase.

"This is a problem that affects the entire industry, but we recognise that there is more work to do," he said. "Effective immediately, we are stepping up our efforts with the singular focus of ensuring the security of our customers' networks and businesses."

Microsoft also said that it will release a set of tools in December aimed at Windows 2000 servers that will be capable of automatically identifying potential system misconfigurations and suggesting changes.

Last week, Gartner analyst John Pescatore recommended enterprises hit by Code Red and Nimda to investigate alternatives to IIS. He said that viruses and worms would continue to attack IIS until Microsoft released a completely rewritten, thoroughly and publicly tested new release of the software.