The University of California, supported by the Patent Office, gained the rights over a patent used by Microsoft in Internet Explorer.

The decision which was taken this week, finalizes a lawsuit filed in 1999 by the University of California and Eolas. In 2003 a jury established a $500 million in damages for the university and Eolas but Microsoft made an appeal which suspended the decision.

The complaining was about the way Microsoft’s Internet Explorer uses plug-ins and applets. The idea was patented in the 90’s by the university and Eolas.

“We are gratified that the patent office’s re-examination has validated its original evaluation of the University’s unique contribution to the technology, which fuels the Internet,� said James E. Holst, the university’s general counsel. “This decision ensures that the patent rights of the public institution that developed this technology, a significant innovation with wide-reaching public benefits and use, will be protected.�

Microsoft expressed its disappointment and the fact that they hope to have a succesfull resolution.