Implausible? In the world of supermarkets, perhaps, but not in the world of browsers. A just-released study claims Microsoft is cutting deals with top Internet service providers (ISPs) to include its browser (Internet Explorer) while excluding the one from Netscape (Communicator).

A recent study by NetAction, a non-profit watchdog group for technology consumers, concludes Microsoft's strong-armed marketing activities have robbed consumers of their freedom of choice. Surveying the top 20 U.S. ISPs, NetAction discovered only two of the top 12 ISPs give consumers a choice by including Netscape Navigator with the start-up software. In fact, the top three consumer ISPs -- America Online, CompuServe and Internet MCI -- have agreed to supply customers only with Internet Explorer. And just one of the three bothers to inform consumers they have the option of downloading an alternative browser.

Netscape, watch out. In the 1980s, Microsoft became determined to win the operating system war. And today Microsoft Windows operating system is installed on roughly 90% of PCs on the market. Now the company is as determined to win the browser war. To that end, it is:

• Capturing new Internet users by co-opting the primary access providers.
• Infiltrating corporate America. (Big Six consultancy KPMG Peat Marwick plans to replace its 18,000 Navigator seats and Netscape SuiteSpot back-end with Microsoft software).
• Integrating Internet Explorer into its Windows 98 OS. Which will have a profound influence over the browser you choose.

Microsoft first locked horns with Netscape two years ago. Back then, Netscape ruled the browser market with roughly an 80% share. Since then, Netscape's share has dropped by 10 points or so (see "Who's Really Winning the Browser War?" linked in the sidebar). What do you think of Microsoft's tactics? Is all fair in love and marketing wars? Or do you believe customers should have freedom of choice. Jump to our Rants & Raves forum to discuss this issue.

Next time you're in the soda aisle, take a moment to appreciate the wide choice of brands and flavors. Then take a moment to celebrate your freedom to pick any one you want. And then take a moment to be grateful that Microsoft is not in the soft drink business.