Once again a deadline for the hardware partners is being extended by Microsoft Corp. The hardware partners install its Windows operating system.

The continued negative reception that XP's successor, Windows Vista, has had among the corporate I. T. buyers is apparently underscored by the extension of XP.

In June 2008, Microsoft stopped selling XP to retailers. However, it allowed PC-makers to license the operating system until Jan. 31, 2009.

A Microsoft spokesperson informed in an emailed statement, "Microsoft is making accommodation through a flexible inventory program that will allow distributors to place their final orders by Jan. 31 2009; and take delivery of those orders through May 30, 2009. This is not an extension of sales."

"The decision was designed to make life easier for system PC builders, smaller resellers who assemble computers to order, many of whom are currently strapped for cash," informed a person familiar with the matter, who declined to be named.