Spanish Linux group, Hispalinux has accused Microsoft that its implementation of UEFI Secure Boot for Windows 8 hardware blocks users from installing other alternatives OS including Linux.
The 8,000-member Spanish group has filed a 14-page complaint with the European Commission against Microsoft saying that it stifles competition.
Hispalinux group told Reuters UEFI Secure Boot in Windows 8 was a de facto technological jail for computer booting systems, making Microsoft’s Windows platform less neutral than ever.
In its complaint, the group said users should obtain digital keys from Microsoft to install operating systems other than Windows.
Hispalinux head Jose Maria Lancho told the news agency, "This is absolutely anti-competitive. It’s really bad for the user and for the European software industry."
Microsoft said UEFI was an industry standard intended at enhancing computer security and the approach had been public for some time.
Microsoft spokesman Robin Koch said: "We are happy to answer any additional questions but we are confident our approach complies with the law and helps keep customers safe."
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Earlier this month, the European Union (EU) fined Microsoft €561m for the company’s failure to provide users with a choice of Internet browsers.
