A Best Buy employee has ignited a geekstorm of controversy by leaking Microsoft training materials that promote Windows as superior to free, open-source Linux operating systems.

The slides, which were posted on a message board, are purportedly part of a presentation prepared by Microsoft for Best Buy store employees. It offers up as fact that Windows is easier and safer to use than Linux systems.

CNET News says Microsoft is “mis-educating” Best Buy employees. The Inquirer tech news site accuses Microsoft of offering “bribes” to blue-shirts, who get a discount on Windows 7 for completing the training.

IT World asks: What’s the big deal? “News flash: Microsoft sells Windows. Microsoft is not interested in promoting rival operating systems and it has a vested interest in providing training and marketing collateral to any retailer that will listen if it will help boost sales of its operating systems and software products.”