Denmark Backs Away from Microsoft Office, But Keeps Windows for Now

On Tuesday, Denmark’s Digitalization Ministry confirmed it will continue using Windows in the public sector, reversing an earlier plan to phase it out alongside Office. Public backlash, technical concerns, and vendor dependency risks sparked months of debate after the government floated the idea of replacing Microsoft’s software stack with open-source tools.

Now, the pivot focuses squarely on ditching Office. By 2026, Denmark plans to swap out Microsoft’s productivity suite for alternatives across all government institutions. The move reflects broader EU concerns about over-reliance on U.S. tech giants and data sovereignty. The ministry said it would work with local agencies to coordinate the transition and prevent disruption.

Other recent Microsoft news –

• Microsoft Threatens to Pull Plug on OpenAI Deal Over For-Profit Dispute
• Windows 11 User Gets Locked Out for Skipping Microsoft Account Setup, and People Are Not Having It
• Microsoft Makes Freelancing Official for Power Platform Professionals with an Upwork Talent Hub

Windows 11 remains in place largely due to system compatibility and resource limitations. Government departments reportedly flagged the cost and complexity of replacing the operating system in short order. A ministry spokesperson said Windows would stay “for the time being,” while the broader digital strategy gets reevaluated.

This isn’t the first time a European country has tried to cut ties with proprietary software. France and Germany attempted similar shifts in the past, only to run into support and integration hurdles.

Denmark’s decision signals a middle path: challenge Microsoft’s dominance where possible but avoid breaking workflows where it hurts. Denmark’s government will stick with Windows 11 for now. But Microsoft Office is still on its way out.

You may also be interested to read –

• Google’s Gemini Team Breaks Down How AI Writes Code, And Where It’s Headed Next
• Google Maps Rolls Out Greener Routes for Europe – Here’s What’s Changing
• Facebook Passkeys Are Here with Face Unlock, Fingerprint, Bidding Passwords Goodbye