Canada could save millions by developing its own operating system instead of relying on Microsoft Windows

Canada has made digital sovereignty a priority in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and telecommunications. But one important part of its digital infrastructure has received far less attention: the operating systems running government computers.

Why does the federal government depend so heavily on software from a foreign company? And could Canada reduce that dependence by developing its own alternative?

My new study argues that Canada could save millions over the next decade by adopting a national, free and open-source operating system.

Such a move could also give Canada greater control over its digital infrastructure and reduce its reliance on technology providers from the United States amid growing trade tensions.

Why operating systems matter

Governments around the world are increasingly concerned about who controls their data, infrastructure and software. This is known as “digital sovereignty” and it has become a central focus of global…