Enhancing system security through access to Microsoft source code and resources

The Government Security Program addresses the unique security requirements of governments worldwide. It enhances system security by providing access to Microsoft Windows and Office source code, prescriptive and authoritative security guidance, technical training, security information, and Microsoft security experts.

This unique program is a global initiative that is designed to build trust and transparency between governments and Microsoft.

Systems Hardening: Co-development to help minimize security exposure

The Government Security Program helps governments to actively participate in ensuring the security of their critical systems. This engineering-level view of Windows offers a detailed understanding of the Windows platform's integrity, enhancing participants' ability to design and build more secure computing infrastructures.

The initiative includes the Government Systems Hardening, through which Microsoft solicits early input from government agencies on security guidance. The Government Systems Hardening gives governments the opportunity to participate in the co-development and testing of prescriptive security guidance, to help minimize security exposure.

Eligibility and participation

The Government Security Program is available to more than 60 countries with intellectual property regimes that meet international standards. It is important to note that:

1. Governments may read and reference the source code, but may not modify it.
2. The term of the agreement is three years.
3. After the licensing agreement is signed by both parties, the participating government gains access to the code through the Code Center Premium SSL-secured Web site.
4. The Code Center Premium site offers search-and-view functionality to augment the efficiency and value of source access.
5. All source code updates are provided by Microsoft through the Code Center Premium site.

Learn more about the program