Microsoft has unveiled the new Wireless Desktop 2000, a keyboard and mouse combo for $40. You can buy it now from Microsoft.com, though you should note that it requires either Windows XP (excluding Windows XP 64-bit), Windows Vista, or Windows 7.

The Wireless Desktop 2000 includes Microsoft's first keyboard that features Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 128-bit encryption - the same technology trusted by the US government to secure their wireless connections and which industry leaders consider to be one of the most secure encryption standards. AES is a unique pre-programmed 128-bit encryption key designed to help prevent your keystrokes, which are transmitted over-the-air, from being intercepted and deciphered. The keyboard also includes a pillow-textured palm rest for added comfort and caters to multitaskers with Taskbar Favorites for Windows 7.

The included Wireless Mouse 2000 features enhanced side grips, an ambidextrous design (meaning it can fit either hand), and also includes a Tilt Wheel for easy side-to-side scrolling. It uses Microsoft's BlueTrack technology, which means it can works on virtually any surface (except glass and mirrored surfaces). All of Microsoft's keyboards and mice come with a worldwide three-year limited hardware warranty.

This appears to be a decent keyboard and mice combo for the price, but the addition of encryption is puzzling. Is Microsoft trying to tap into the paranoid market?