Microsoft Monopoly Sparks Concerns: Europe Faces Challenges in Finding Alternatives

As geopolitical tensions escalate, European countries are actively seeking alternatives to American IT services. Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and ICT cooperative SURF are also exploring alternatives to Microsoft and Google. However, the university’s Chief Information Security Officer states that there are currently no mature European alternatives available. The article analyzes the comprehensiveness of Microsoft’s services—from word processing and cloud storage to security solutions and AI technology—pointing out that completely replacing Microsoft is nearly impossible. Nevertheless, several European universities have begun collaborating to develop alternatives, including Germany’s Nextcloud and Open Desk. The article also explores the trade balance between the United States and Europe, suggesting that America might not easily cut off European data access, as this would cause significant economic losses for American companies. Despite the challenges, Europe is working to gradually establish an independent IT ecosystem through cooperation between governments, nations, and knowledge institutions—a process that may take several years.