France Shifts 2.5 Million Windows Desktops to Linux: New System Revealed

Taylor Keatsman

Published: April 13, 2026 4:31 PM ET

France Shifts 2.5 Million Windows Desktops to Linux: New System Revealed

France is transitioning 2.5 million Windows desktops to Linux, marking a significant shift in government technology. The new Linux system will be based on a modified version of GendBuntu, specifically tailored for the nation’s administrative needs. This change comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce dependence on American software companies.

Key Details of the Transition

The announcement was made by France’s Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM) on April 8, 2026. The government aims to replace all Windows systems across ministries with Linux, requiring each to submit a comprehensive migration plan by fall 2026.

Reasons for the Shift

Increased security and privacy concerns.
Desire for digital sovereignty and control over technological infrastructure.
Cost savings projected to exceed €40 million annually.

Background on GendBuntu

France has prior experience with GendBuntu, a Linux distribution used by the national police since 2008. This system has been successfully deployed on over 100,000 PCs, demonstrating the feasibility of a nationwide Linux transition.

Cost efficiency

Switching to GendBuntu has reportedly saved France approximately two million Euros each year compared to using Windows 11.

Features of the New Linux Desktop: FranceOS

The new desktop, temporarily named “FranceOS,” will be based on Ubuntu 24.04, with updates planned following the release of Ubuntu 26.04. Key features include:

Transition from the X11 graphics system to Wayland.
Integration of GNOME 50 for improved user experience.
Usage of LibreOffice 26.2.2 as the primary office suite.
Incorporation of cloud-based services through La Suite Numérique.

Collaborative Tools in La Suite Numérique

This suite offers essential applications designed to facilitate collaboration among civil servants:

Tchap: A secure instant messaging tool.
Visio: A video conferencing platform intended to replace Microsoft Teams.
Docs: A collaborative document editing application.
Grist: Spreadsheets and no-code application development.
Fichiers: Secure file storage and sharing solution.
Messagerie: Sovereign email and calendar service.
France Transfert: A large file transfer service compliant with GDPR.

European Collaboration and Future Outlook

This initiative places France at the forefront of digital sovereignty in Europe. The integration of these tools is a step towards more extensive interoperability with neighboring countries. As France moves toward fully implementing GendBuntu, anticipation grows for 2027, potentially marking a turning point for Linux in governmental operations.

With this transition, France aims to lead the charge in a shift away from Windows desktops in favor of open-source solutions, illustrating a growing trend in the European Union. The time may come when Linux is no longer an alternative but a standard for government and business applications worldwide.