China Moves to Replace Windows in Government Offices With Domestic Linux-Based Systems
China is reportedly directing some government and state-linked agencies to remove Windows 10 from their computers and adopt locally developed Linux-based operating systems instead. According to Bloomberg ,. . .
China is reportedly directing some government and state-linked agencies to remove Windows 10 from their computers and adopt locally developed Linux-based operating systems instead. According toBloomberg, the move is part of Beijing’s broader effort to reduce reliance on US technology and strengthen control over sensitive data, although authorities have not cited any specific security vulnerability in Microsoft’s software as the reason for the decision. China Uses a Customised Version of Windows 10Chinese government agencies do not use the standardWindows 10version available to consumers. Instead, they rely on a customised edition developed by C&M Information Technologies (CMIT), a joint venture formed in 2016 byMicrosoftand state-owned China Electronics Technology Group. The modified software was designed to meet Beijing’s security requirements and supports Chinese encryption standards. Microsoft has said it is not aware of any security incident involving the product and that it continues to receive regular security updates. China is pulling the plug on an older version of Microsoft Windows tailored for government agencies, part of a broader effort to reduce its dependence on foreign technologyhttps://t. co/tu3ap9iIQ9— Bloomberg (@business)August 18, 2026Beijing Retires Windows Earlier Than PlannedThe customised Windows 10 edition was originally scheduled to be phased out in February 2027, but Chinese authorities have reportedly brought forward the retirement by several months. The decision has caught some government employees by surprise and comes as Beijing continues efforts to reduce its dependence on foreign technology. The timing is also notable as it falls weeks ahead of a planned meeting between US PresidentDonald Trumpand Chinese PresidentXi Jinping. China Wants Domestic Linux AlternativesChinese authorities are encouraging state agencies to move to locally developed operating systems, particularly on computers handling sensitive information. Companies such as Kylin Software and Tongxin Software Technology have developed Linux-based alternatives, including Kylin OS and Unity OS, respectively. The latest move is part of a broader effort that has seen Beijing push government departments and state-owned companies to replace foreign-made computers and technology with domestic alternatives. China Is Not Alone in Moving Away From WindowsThe shift is not unique to China, with several European governments also exploring Linux as an alternative to Microsoft's operating system. France announced plans earlier this year to move government ministries to Linux, while Germany, Denmark and Austria have also taken steps in that direction. Despite the government push, Windows remains highly popular among Chinese consumers, accounting for 87. 64 per cent of desktop web traffic in July 2026, according to StatCounter. Microsoft also continues to have a significant business presence in China through its cloud and AI services. ALSO SEE:Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra Review: Best Foldable With An Expensive Proposition