China accelerates transition from Microsoft Windows to domestic Linux

China is accelerating its transition away from Microsoft Windows in government agencies and state-owned enterprises. The Ministry of State Security has reportedly instructed various institutions to cease using the ‘Windows 10 China Government Edition’ earlier than the originally planned February 2027 phase-out.

This specialized version of Windows 10 was developed through a joint venture between Microsoft and China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) via C&M Information Technologies Co (CMIT). The edition was designed to meet Chinese security requirements by allowing centralized control over updates, telemetry, and encryption, while removing features like OneDrive.

The shift aligns with Beijing’s ‘Xinchuang’ (IT Application Innovation) strategy, which aims to reduce technological dependence on foreign providers by replacing foreign hardware and software with domestic alternatives. Instead of the customized Windows version, government-affiliated entities are being directed to adopt locally developed Linux distributions.