France has officially decided to replace Microsoft Windows with Linux across all government computers, marking a major step toward achieving digital independence.
The change will affect roughly 2.5 million civil servants. Each ministry must submit its replacement plans by autumn 2026, detailing alternatives for collaboration platforms, antivirus software, AI systems, databases, and networking tools, according to 4ca.
Earlier this year, the French government directed all departments to stop using American video-conferencing services and switch to Visio, a domestic platform hosted on local servers, by 2027. Officials emphasized that relying on too many external tools undermines data security and creates strategic dependence on foreign infrastructure.
“The goal is to end the use of non-European solutions and ensure secure and confidential public communications through a strong and sovereign system,” said David Amiel, Minister for the Civil Service and State Reform.
France’s initiative follows a growing movement among European governments turning away from U.S. technologies in favor of open-source, locally controlled alternatives due to concerns about privacy, data safety, and rising geopolitical tensions.
In March, Germany announced that all public documents must be issued only in open formats, excluding Microsoft Word and other proprietary file types. Similarly, Schleswig-Holstein reported in 2025 that 80% of its state offices had switched to open-source software. The Austrian Armed Forces also replaced Microsoft Office with LibreOffice, a German-developed suite, cutting costs while boosting digital sovereignty.
Linux, the operating system created by Finnish engineer Linus Torvalds, has evolved into a global open-source project supported by developers worldwide.
In a related move, Vienna-based developer LittleSnitch, known for its network monitoring tool for macOS, recently launched a free version for Linux users. The company said current international events highlight serious concerns about reliance on foreign-controlled software.