'Regain control of our digital destiny': France to ditch Windows for Linux to reduce reliance on US tech
France is replacing US software with European alternatives
by https://www.techradar.com/uk/author/craig-hale · TechRadarNews By Craig Hale published 13 April 2026
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- France is "leading by example" by going all-in on digital sovereignty
- Linux operating systems will be favored over Windows
- Plans are already in place to move a health data platform
France is set to move all government desktops from Windows to Linux as part of a nationwide strategy to cut costs and reduce reliance on US tech giants.
The initiative, led by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM), will require all ministries to submit their own migration plans by autumn 2026, with IT bodies like DINUM kickstarting the migration before other bodies.
"DINUM will coordinate an interdepartmental plan to reduce non-European dependencies," DINUM said in an announcement.
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Full steam ahead on removing US Big Tech
What we're seeing in France is part of a broader Europe sovereignty push, with other fellow member states seeking to reduce reliance on US tech giants and regain control over their own software.
"Digital sovereignty is not an option, it is a strategic necessity," Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs Anne Le Hénanff wrote.
"France is leading by example by accelerating the switch to sovereign, interoperable and sustainable solutions."
The push covers more than just Windows – collaboration tools, cloud and infrastructure, AI systems, databases and networking are all being scrutinized under the sovereign drive.
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