Switzerland's Calculated Break From Microsoft: 3,000 Workstations Test Open-Source Path to Digital Control

Switzerland's federal government has launched a CHF 9 million pilot to test openDesk and related open-source tools on 3,000 workstations as a sovereign alternative to Microsoft 365. Following positive results from a 172-user proof-of-concept on core office functions, the program prioritizes data protection and reduced vendor dependence while running in parallel with existing systems. The military is moving faster with a full switch planned for October 2026.