France will begin replacing Windows operating systems with Linux on its government computers as part of a push to reduce reliance on American tech giants. The transition, announced by the digital transformation ministry, aims to improve cybersecurity and give authorities more control over software used in public administration.
Officials cited concerns over data privacy and the dominance of foreign technology companies as key reasons for the shift. France follows Germany and Spain, which have also explored similar transitions in recent years. The government plans to complete the migration within three years, prioritizing critical agencies such as healthcare and education.
The move reflects a wider European trend toward digital sovereignty, where countries seek to minimize dependence on non-EU technology. France’s decision comes after repeated warnings from cybersecurity agencies about vulnerabilities in proprietary software. A pilot program in several ministries will test compatibility before full rollout.
Microsoft, which holds a significant share of France’s government software market, has not commented on the policy change. Analysts note that while Linux offers greater customization, training costs and software compatibility could pose challenges. The government has allocated €50 million to support the transition.
France’s shift is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its tech industry and reduce exposure to geopolitical risks. Similar initiatives are underway in other sectors, including cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
Source: techcrunch.com