Open source vendors fight back against Microsoft patent claims

Microsoft’s recent efforts to improve relationships with some in the open source community could be seriously undermined by this week’s claims that Linux infringes 235 Microsoft patents.

The claim sparked fear that lawsuits could be looming, although Microsoft officials insist they want licensing agreements, not epic court battles.

"We're not out to attack any open-source companies," said Bill Hilf, general manager of platform strategy and director of Microsoft's work with open-source projects, in an interview on Wednesday.

Open source vendors fight back against Microsoft patent claims.