Why Many Institutions Are Considering Linux as an Alternative to Windows
Imagine waking up one morning to find that more and more government agencies, companies, and public institutions around the world are finally questioning the use of Microsoft Windows—not out of ideology, but due to growing concerns about data privacy, compliance, and digital dependency.
This isn’t about illegal software; it’s about officially distributed versions of Windows running on millions of computers—possibly including yours. Recent data shows a noticeable increase in Linux user numbers since the end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025. In Switzerland, Linux’s desktop market share rose from 1.8% (2024) to 2.7% (June 2025), while Windows dropped from 78.0% to 73.5% in the same period. Globally, Linux’s desktop market share reached about 3% by the end of 2025, with peaks above 5% in some markets like the U.S. The forced upgrade to Windows 11 and privacy concerns are driving many users—both individuals and businesses—to Linux. For example, the monthly user count of the Linux distribution Bazzite jumped from just under 50,000 to around 62,500 between November and December 2025.
Windows 11: Criticism, Risks, and Skepticism
Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, putting organizations under pressure to either upgrade to Windows 11 or explore alternatives.
- Increasing pressure to log in with a Microsoft account
- Extensive telemetry and data collection features
- Higher hardware requirements and sometimes poorer performance on older devices
These issues are particularly problematic in sensitive sectors like administration, education, and healthcare, prompting a closer look at alternatives like Linux.
International Examples of Linux Migrations
South Korea: More Independence Through Open Source
Various South Korean government agencies are already using Linux-based systems, such as Harmonica OS (Ubuntu-based) and Gooroom OS (Debian-based). The goal is to reduce dependence on proprietary systems and strengthen control over national IT infrastructure.
Brazil: Digital Sovereignty as a National Goal
For several years, Brazil has pursued programs aimed at digital sovereignty. Public institutions are evaluating and using Linux systems to become less dependent on foreign software providers and reduce long-term costs and dependencies.
Australia: Data Privacy in Healthcare
In the Australian healthcare sector, tests of modern Windows versions revealed data privacy and compliance risks. Some institutions are now exploring Linux-based alternatives to better protect sensitive patient data.
Case Study Europe: The City of Munich’s Linux Migration
1. Switch from Windows to Linux (Project LiMux, 2004–2013)
Munich decided to migrate its 15,000 authority PCs to the free operating system Linux (LiMux) to reduce dependence on Microsoft and cut costs. By 2013, about 80% of workstations were running Linux. The project was considered a global showcase for open source in public administration.
However, there were technical and organizational challenges, particularly regarding compatibility with file formats used by other authorities still relying on Microsoft products. Maintaining both Linux and Windows systems was complex and expensive.
2. Return to Windows (2017)
The Munich City Council decided to revert to Windows 10. Reasons included poor compatibility with other authorities, a lack of specialized software for Linux, and a desire for a uniform, market-standard system. The transition was to be completed by 2020.
Criticism: Many viewed the return to Windows as a step backward, arguing that while the LiMux project was costly, it was technically successful. The decision was also seen as politically motivated, driven by the new coalition (SPD/CSU).
3. Current Developments (from 2024/2025)
New Open-Source Initiatives: Since 2024, Munich has renewed its focus on open source, establishing an Open Source Program Office. The city emphasizes using open standards and free software “where technically and financially feasible.” This is not a return to LiMux but a strategic realignment focusing on interoperability and digital sovereignty.
Interesting to Note: Other European cities and authorities (e.g., the French Gendarmerie or Spanish regions) successfully use Linux, often with fewer compatibility issues because they prioritized interoperability from the start.
Why Organizations Are Increasingly Questioning Windows
The growing skepticism toward Windows is primarily driven by three factors:
- Data Privacy and Compliance: Under GDPR, data flows must be transparent and controllable.
- Digital Sovereignty: Independent control over software and infrastructure is gaining geopolitical importance.
- Flexibility and Customization: Open-source systems can be tailored to specific organizational needs.
Conclusion
While there is no outright ban on Windows 11, numerous examples show that governments and companies worldwide are exploring or already switching to alternatives, with Linux playing a central role.
For users and organizations, this means the question of control, privacy, and long-term dependence on software providers is becoming increasingly relevant. The choice of operating system is no longer just a technical decision.
