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The Impact of Competition Intensity on Software Security: An Empirical Analysis of Web Browser Patch Releases

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  • Jo Arrah-Marie

    (551887 IMT Atlantique Bretagne-Pays de la Loire – Campus de Rennes , Cesson-Sevigne, France)

Abstract

This paper investigates the relationship between competition intensity and the security level provided by software vendors, in particular when the software is free of charge to users. We examine the case of web browsers, a key component of internet security where vendors compete on quality and generate revenue through advertising. Using a pooled cross-sectional dataset on web browser security patch releases from 2009 to 2018, we analyze how competition affects the promptness of these releases. Our findings reveal that higher market concentration can enhance a vendor’s responsiveness in addressing vulnerabilities, though this positive effect weakens when a vendor becomes excessively dominant.

Suggested Citation

  • Jo Arrah-Marie, 2024. "The Impact of Competition Intensity on Software Security: An Empirical Analysis of Web Browser Patch Releases," Review of Network Economics, De Gruyter, vol. 23(4), pages 161-198.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:rneart:v:23:y:2024:i:4:p:161-198:n:1001
    DOI: 10.1515/rne-2024-0045
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