Microsoft Ships Windows Live OneCare

New all-in-one, automatic and self-updating PC care service from computer software giant is geared towards supporting up to three PCs for one annual fee.

Microsoft today took the beta off of all-in-one, automatic and self-updating PC care service Windows Live OneCare. The service is now available for purchase online or at retailers for an annual subscription rate of $49.95 for up to three PCs.

Windows Live OneCare, said Microsoft, was first released as a beta back in November. The now fully functioning service has a variety of features, including anti-virus and firewall protection features and automatic updates, as well as anti-spyware functionality; regular PC tune-ups; backup and restore functionality; and help when needed through a variety of modes — e-mail, phone and chat — with all service support coming from Microsoft for no additional charge.

“Windows Live OneCare delivers what millions of consumers have been asking for: one source for top-to-bottom maintenance, support and performance optimization tools plus increased protection that takes the worry out of PC care,” said Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect at Microsoft, in a statement. “This ‘just take care of it’ experience enables customers to focus on what they really care about, which is to be able to sit down at their PCs and enjoy their digital lifestyles.”