- Lyon has confirmed plans to pull the plug on some Microsoft -Software
- European and Open Source Software are the preferred alternatives
- Other European cities make similar traits
France’s third largest city, Lyon, is the latest European city that has dug Microsoft Office in favor of open source software alternatives.
It is a step that wins traction across Europe as countries appear to reduce their dependence on American software in the midst of the ongoing geopolitical tension while increasing sovereignty.
At the same time, Ditching Microsoft will enable Lyon to expand the life of its hardware to reduce its environmental impact, with open source software that is less likely to impose life’s end dates as the upcoming Windows 10 depreciation in October 2025.
Lyon shifts away from Microsoft
In an online memo, Lyon’s office explained that it would go away from Microsoft Software against Only Office, developed by a group of Latvian developers as well as Linux and Postgresql.
As part of the move, Territoire Numérique is also adopted as an alternative to video conferencing and office automation.
It is assumed that the Lyon government employs about 10,000 individuals, making this a colossal shift that may require large amounts of retraining and re -schooling. Munich previously tried a similar switch, but later turned the move due to compatibility problems and the user’s dissatisfaction.
Still, with EU-American tensions at a highlight at all times, the movement wins a traction again.
Germany’s Schleswig-Holstein recently announced plans to conclude contracts for Microsoft software, including teams, with neighboring countries Danish cities Copenhagen and Aarhus also reportedly exploring opportunities.
Microsoft probably counts customers in his order books so that it should not worry about losing Lyon, with the move instead of marking a symbolic shift. But if more European cities start turning their backs to Microsoft, the American tech giant could begin to see economic effects.
Techradar Pro Have asked Microsoft to think about the ongoing European trend, but we did not receive an immediate answer.
