A Major threat to free/open operating systems. Microsoft and several PC vendors have teamed up to ensure that only operating systems bearing Microsoft's cryptographic signature will be able to boot on their hardware, meaning that unless Microsoft has blessed your favorite flavor of Open Source Linux or BSD PC Operating System, you won't be able to just install it on your machine, or boot to it from a USB stick or CD to even try it out unless the Open Source software vendor/group pays Microsoft a fee.

At issue is a new facility called UEFI, which allows a computer's bootloader to distinguish between different operating systems by examining their cryptographic signatures. In theory. Microsoft and its partners have elected to require a very complex and intimidating process that -- by design or accident -- is certain to scare off most unsophisticated users (a majority).

This is a blatent attempt to create another Monopoly and strangle PC Innovation.
With Tablet, Mobile/cell, and Cloud use growing rapidly this is an attempt by these companies to dictate what can be done with your computer, laptop, netbook, Tablet, phone & cloud products & services.

Let the FTC know.