# European government transition to Linux-based systems > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-government-transition-to-linux-based-systems > Updated: 2026-09-28T22:00:00.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2. The Netherlands has initiated a strategic transition of its government computing systems from Microsoft Windows to Linux through a project called Digitaal Autonome Werkomgeving Overheid (DAWO). This move aims to enhance digital sovereignty and mitigate risks associated with reliance on non-EU technology providers, a concern heightened by previous instances where foreign private providers reportedly restricted access to essential services during geopolitical tensions. The Dutch initiative utilizes the NixOS distribution for its secure and reproducible configuration management. The project intends to replace a broad proprietary ecosystem, including cloud storage and productivity tools, with a stable autonomous digital workspace expected by 2027. This trend toward digital sovereignty has expanded to include France. The French Interministerial Digital Directorate (DINUM) is developing ‘SécurixOS’, a hardened, NixOS-based operating system designed to provide a minimal and secure environment for government teams. Both nations are leveraging NixOS to reduce dependence on American software providers. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-28: Netherlands and France adopt NixOS to increase digital sovereignty The Netherlands and France are adopting NixOS-based operating systems to establish digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on major American software providers. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/netherlands-and-france-adopt-nixos-to-increase-digital-sovereignty ### 2026-09-25: Netherlands begins transition from Windows to Linux for government systems The Netherlands is transitioning government IT systems from Windows to Linux via the DAWO project to bolster digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on non-EU technology providers. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/netherlands-initiates-transition-from-microsoft-windows-to-linux --- Cite as: European government transition to Linux-based systems. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-government-transition-to-linux-based-systems