German state ditches Microsoft for Linux and LibreOffice (zdnet.com)

Article summary

The German state of Schleswig-Holstein is switching from Microsoft Windows and Office to Linux and LibreOffice for its approximately 30,000 employees, citing digital sovereignty, cost savings, and improved security. The move aims to protect citizens' data from being accessed by foreign companies and promote European tech companies. The state plans to replace Microsoft-specific programs with open-source equivalents, such as Nextcloud and Open Xchange/Thunderbird. This decision is part of a broader trend in the European Union to promote digital sovereignty and reduce dependence on proprietary software.

Main themes

• Digital Sovereignty
• Open-Source Software
• Microsoft Alternatives
• Government IT
• Data Protection
• European Union Tech Policy

What commenters say

• The switch to Linux and LibreOffice may not be permanent, as similar attempts in the past have been reversed due to lobbying or other factors.
• Open-source software is not inherently more secure than proprietary software, and the recent XZ Utils backdoor fiasco is a concern.
• Microsoft's software is superior to open-source alternatives, particularly for non-technical users, and the switch may cause difficulties for IT administrators.
• Government investment in improving free software can lead to cost savings and increased digital sovereignty, making it a worthwhile effort.
• The success of open-source software depends on having a clear design vision and leadership, which can be lacking in some projects.
• Some commenters believe that open-source software can be a viable alternative to commercial products, citing examples such as Gimp, Blender, and Firefox.
• Others argue that open-source software often lacks the polish and features of commercial products, making it less desirable for many users.
• The switch to Linux and LibreOffice is seen as a way to promote European tech companies and reduce dependence on foreign software vendors.