For the past few weeks rumors have been swirling in regards to upcoming Microsoft layoffs. But is it just rumors or is there a massive layoff coming?

According to Fudzilla, the layoffs are now imminent and will begin January 15th. They are saying that up to 17% of the Microsoft workforce will be let go.

Based in Redmond, Microsoft was thought to forever be “recession proof”, but not anymore. The company has a workforce of more than 90,000 worldwide and has never had formal layoffs in their history.

Cutbacks would not likely take place in its X-box division, but more likely in MSN, overseas sales and some marketing.

The announcement of any Microsoft layoffs would likely come before it’s second quarter earnings report which is due out January 22nd.

As expected, the official word coming from Microsoft is that they have no comments on the rumors and speculation.