The Final Judgement 2

    Jackson ruled against Microsoft’s request for further deliberation and testimony relating to the possible consequences of the government’s proposed plan, and on June 7, 2000 entered the government’s plan without any significant changes. The structural remedy in the ruling would split Microsoft horizontally into two competing firms. One would produce Windows, while the other produces Microsoft's entire product line, save Windows, including computer accessories and applications.

    A firewall would be placed between the two firms for a length of 10 years, enforced by government monitoring. The two would not be able to cooperate or share developments in any way during this time. This would effectively remove Microsoft's ability to leverage its Windows monopoly in other markets.

    Also, as clearly stated in American antitrust law, Bill Gates would have to choose only one of the two companies to hold stock in and manage. American law prohibits people from holding a controlling interest in competing firms, especially those created through antitrust action.

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