Hewlett-Packard is getting into the browser wars with the launch of a virtual browser in conjunction with The Mozilla Foundation, HP executives told InternetNews.com..

But there's a catch: You only get the browser as one of a bevy of new security and green tech features offered with HP's Monday launch of its new Compaq dc7900 desktop series.

"We think it's going to be revolutionary," said Kirk Godkin, manager of HP's business desktops for North America. "We've partnered with Firefox and Symantec to deliver the HP-Firefox virtual browser," he added.

What HP (NYSE: HPQ) sees in this is a browser that's a little different in that it run in its virtualized runtime environment, he added. "Everything you're clicking on is being put into a sandbox. All downloads, cookies -- everything you've done is can be cleaned out" in a virtual browser environment, he said. "You still save all your favorites. It's easy to implement and easy to understand."

Godkin said HP expects to build the feature across its entire desktop lineups.

The virtual browser feature is just one in an array of features HP is touting with its slimmed down dc7900 desktop line, such as integrated display ports in its monitors, enabling dual independent display, power management features and improved security features such as the virtual browser.

HP is releasing more information about the lines Monday at a press event in New York. Pricing for the models starts in the $699 to $1,299 range.

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