Both Microsoft and the European Commission have now heaved a sigh of relief as the regulator's decade old battle with the US technology giant has come to an end, after Microsoft agreed to offer users of the Windows operating system a choice of 12 different browsers instead of just its Internet Explorer. With the move, the software firm has managed to avoid hefty fines.

Till date, Microsoft has been fined worth a whopping 1.68 Billion Euros ($2.45 Billion) by the regulator.

According to EU, the firm's "legally binding pledge" has effectively managed to satisfy the antitrust concerns that were raised about it.

As per the new agreement, Microsoft will be offering users a "ballot screen" which would let them chooses from a number of rival browsers. The promised amendment will be valid for a total of 5 years across the European Economic Area.

"Millions of European consumers will benefit from this decision by having a free choice about which web browser they use", said Neelie Kroes, Competition Commissioner.

EU's antitrust enquiry was started when Opera had filed a complaint in December 2007.