Switzerland Switches 3000 Devices from Microsoft 365 to Open Source
The Swiss federal government is embarking on a pilot program to test open-source software alternatives to Microsoft 365, starting with 3,000 machines. This move comes as part of a broader effort to reduce dependence on foreign tech companies, particularly US giants.
The current proof-of-concept has already seen 172 federal employees testing German-made openDesk for document processing and emailing. This experiment aims to assess the feasibility of switching from Microsoft 365 to open-source alternatives by the end of 2027.
Switzerland's goal is not to completely replace Microsoft 365, but rather to use open-source software in parallel with it. The government wants to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions to critical operations.