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A German state is ditching Windows and Microsoft Office for Linux and LibreOffice on the 30,000 PCs it uses for local government functions (www.theregister.com)

submitted 7 months ago* (last edited 7 months ago) by ForgottenFlux@lemmy.world to c/technology@lemmy.world

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Schleswig-Holstein, Germany's most northern state, is starting its switch from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice, and is planning to move from Windows to Linux on the 30,000 PCs it uses for local government functions.

Concerns over data security are also front and center in the Minister-President's statement, especially data that may make its way to other countries. Back in 2021, when the transition plans were first being drawn up, the hardware requirements for Windows 11 were also mentioned as a reason to move away from Microsoft.

Saunders noted that "the reasons for switching to Linux and LibreOffice are different today. Back when LiMux started, it was mostly seen as a way to save money. Now the focus is far more on data protection, privacy and security. Consider that the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) recently found that the European Commission's use of Microsoft 365 breaches data protection law for EU institutions and bodies."

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[–] Appoxo@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 points 7 months ago (2 children)

Meanwhile another german city (munich) is going back to MS

but maybe with the increased user base it can become one.

You think the state will contribute? I highly doubt that. At best it will be gov specific functionalities.

[–] VeganCheesecake@lemmy.blahaj.zone 11 points 7 months ago

Well, Munich decided to switch back around the time Microsoft was negotiating about building their Germany HQ there. There have been allegations of backroom dealings, but I dunno if there's ever been anything proven. There is a very big, very shiny building with a sign that says Microsoft near where I lived when I was there, though.

Though I also read some articles about them partially going back to FOSS, so who knows what they'll do in the end.

[–] wuphysics87@lemmy.ml 4 points 7 months ago

You'd need a massive increase in tech support. Likely more than you'd spend on ms in the first place. Seems a political gambit or a political gaff.