Microsoft’s Ambitious New Plans : Technology: The software giant outlines a strategy to make its Windows program dominant in corporate computing too.

Seeking to extend its dominance beyond the individual personal computer, Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday unveiled a new version of its popular Windows software and mapped out a strategy that could establish the company as the standard-setter for business computing.

The new strategy could pose a major competitive threat to other software companies by potentially rendering certain of their products obsolete.

The plan reflects the growing dominance of personal computers in corporate offices, and is a departure from Microsoft’s traditional focus as a supplier of software for individual PCs. Microsoft aims to be the IBM of the 1990s, the company setting the framework in which all computer suppliers and customers must operate.

“The days of the mainframe and the minicomputer are gone,” said Tim Bajarin, president of the market research firm Creative Strategies. “Microsoft is replicating (the functions of large machines) through the PC software. There’s no other way to do it.”

Microsoft’s strategy centers on two new versions of Windows, one designed for people working in groups and another for sophisticated corporate computing applications. Windows is an enhancement to the basic operating software of a personal computer and uses graphical images to make PCs easier to use.

Some analysts praised Microsoft’s approach. But they cautioned that some of the new software won’t reach the market for nearly a year, and noted that some powerful competitors--including IBM, Sun Microsystems and Novell--are unlikely to cede control of business computing to Microsoft without a fight.

And some questioned Microsoft’s expertise at dealing with corporate computer managers, who have different needs than individual PC users.

“Microsoft is a little naive about how big companies operate,” said Amy Wohl, editor of the Trendsletter. “They can’t bring this stuff in through the back door,” noting that was how many corporations first acquired PCs.

Microsoft, the world’s largest PC software company, faces another potential obstacle. The Federal Trade Commission is investigating the company’s business practices.

Many in the computer industry contend that Microsoft takes unfair advantage of its control over basic PC operating software--including DOS and Windows. Success with its new business computing strategy could exacerbate those complaints.

Although Microsoft has discussed aspects of its new “enterprise computing” strategy before, the company on Wednesday provided more details and a broad overview at a briefing for reporters and analysts.

Later this month, the company will introduce an enhanced version of Windows called “Windows for Workgroups.” In addition to all the features now offered with Windows, the Workgroup product will feature built-in electronic mail and local area network capabilities, making it easier for computer users to communicate with one another and share files.

In addition, Microsoft is stepping up its service and support efforts and moving into the consulting business with the aim of becoming a single point of contact for complex business computer systems.