By stockOzone team

The markets are abuzz with rumors that Microsoft (MSFT) is working on a free ad-supported version of Microsoft Office which will be made available on internet. There will be two versions - one web-based and one for a desktop install - and both will have limited functionality compared to the full-bore suite.

The move is expected to help the software giant in checking the piracy of its hugely popular office suit. It will also help it gain a competitive disadvantage to free online services offered by OpenOffice.org, Google etc.

Disclosure: Author does not own any of the stocks discussed here.