U2Open – Open Source IT Solutions Provider for Sovereign IT

Your open source IT solutions provider for digital sovereignty

Your IT. Your data. More room for action.

Changed licensing conditions, rising costs for software subscriptions, and geopolitical uncertainties make long-term IT decisions more difficult. For companies, therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to control their data and infrastructure and to have real alternatives in the event of changes.

With U2Open, we rely on open-source technologies and a clear focus on German and European data sovereignty. We want to help companies reduce their dependence on individual manufacturers and further develop their IT in a more self-determined manner.

To this end, we look at software, data locations, access rights, and operating models in context. Open interfaces, clear responsibilities, and practical switching options create the foundation for greater freedom of choice.

For us, cost-effectiveness means keeping the overall costs in mind: from licensing and deployment to maintenance and support, and even a possible change of provider. This provides a solid foundation for long-term IT decisions that are sustainable in the long run.

More flexibility for your corporate IT

U2Open is our expertise in open source infrastructure and digital sovereignty. We already use Linux, Proxmox, OPNsense, Aagon, Open-Xchange, Checkmk, Passbolt, and Vaultwarden. This practice forms the foundation of our approach to controllable, long-term operational IT.

For us, a suitable IT decision begins with your company: with workflows, existing systems, and the people who work with them on a daily basis. Four goals are central to this:

Control dataBe able to track access, storage locations, and responsibilities.

Reducing dependenciesConsider interfaces, export options, and alternatives early on.

Keep operations manageableIncorporate maintenance, updates, and responsibilities into technical decisions.

Evaluating investmentsIn addition to purchasing and licensing, we also consider integration, training, and ongoing operation.

Technologies we work with

Enterprise IT consists of interconnected systems. We use the following solutions in various areas. Which of them are suitable for your requirements depends on your existing environment and the intended operation.

Linux as an operating system for servers and workstations

Operating systems influence how applications are run, manage devices, and allow for updates. Linux provides an open foundation for servers and workstations – with different distributions for different needs.

At U2Open, we view Linux as an important component of a sovereign IT strategy. Companies can thus gain more freedom of action in terms of operation, customization, and maintenance. Compatibility with existing applications and devices is crucial, as are reliable security updates and clear support channels.

An initial introduction can be limited to individual systems or suitable workstations. This allows companies to gain practical experience and evaluate the further use based on their actual requirements.

Virtualisation and server infrastructure with Proxmox

Growing server landscapes can tie up resources and make management more difficult. Virtualisation allows multiple systems to be run on shared hardware and managed centrally.

We use Proxmox. In the area of server virtualisation, Proxmox VE offers an open platform for virtual machines and containers. For companies, the structure of the environment, available resources, and a suitable operating and recovery plan are particularly crucial.

Firewall, network and VPN with OPNsense

Locations, mobile employees and internal applications require regulated connections. At the same time, sensitive network areas should be separated from each other and access should be traceable.

We use OPNsense. The open firewall and routing platform supports network rules and VPN connections. The benefit comes from a configuration that fits the actual communication paths and security requirements of the company.

IT and client management with Aagon

Different software versions and manual installations make managing workstations difficult. Central client management can help organize devices and software inventories more clearly.

We use Aagon solutions for this area. The possibilities for inventory management, software distribution, and other administrative tasks depend on the product used and the available modules. Aagon complements our technology focus as a commercial solution.

Email and collaboration with Open-Xchange

Emails, appointments and contacts must work reliably in the daily work routine. End devices, permissions and existing applications play an important role in this.

We are using Open-Xchange. The OX App Suite combines email, calendar and contacts in a common work environment. In addition to the features, data import, interfaces and integration into existing processes are also important criteria when selecting a solution.

Password management with Passbolt or Vaultwarden

Shared passwords in tables or messages make it difficult to control business access. Password managers support organized storage and the targeted shared use of access data.

We use Passbolt and Vaultwarden. For a specific use case, they are worth evaluating as alternatives: Passbolt is particularly focused on collaboration with team access data. Vaultwarden is an independent, unofficial server implementation compatible with Bitwarden clients. What matters are permissions, recovery, and a reliably organized operation.

German and European data sovereignty begins with concrete decisions

Who is allowed to access company data? Where is it processed? And can you switch applications or service providers without losing access to important information?

Our focus on German and European data sovereignty is at the heart of these issues. European technologies and providers can be a component. Additionally, the actual data location, administrative access, contracted subcontractors, and contractual responsibilities are important factors.

Open Source creates opportunities for testing, customization, and individual operational decision-making. How much control this brings also depends on documentation, available competencies, and usable data exports.

A sovereign IT strategy therefore takes into account both the software and its operation. This includes clear responsibilities, controlled access, and a clear path for changes.

Choose open source software deliberately and operate it reliably

Open source code allows software to be examined and adapted within its license. Open interfaces and suitable data formats can create additional possibilities for action.

However, further questions must be answered for enterprise deployment: Who installs security updates? Which version is supported? How are data backed up? And who assumes responsibility in the event of a disruption?

Therefore, we consider open source in conjunction with maintainability, integration, and operational requirements. Complementary commercial products can be useful if their benefits and dependencies are transparent.

The economic aspect also deserves full consideration. License costs are a component; implementation, training, and ongoing operation are also included.

Frequently asked questions about U2Open and Open Source

Do we have to completely replace our existing IT?

No. A possible entry point is a specific area, such as virtualization, networking, or password management. Interfaces and existing applications determine which changes are worthwhile.

Can Open Source work with existing software?

This is often possible. What matters are the specific interfaces, versions, and workflows. In particular, for specialist applications, collaboration should be examined before a transition takes place.

Are all the products used by U2Open open source?

Our focus is on open source. In addition, we use commercial solutions such as Aagon. For products with multiple editions, we take into account their different licensing and functionality models.

Are our data automatically stored in Germany or the EU?

The storage and processing location depends on the chosen operating model. Security arrangements, support access, and other associated services must also be considered.

Does Open Source automatically mean GDPR compliance?

The license alone does not determine this. The assessment of data protection includes, among other things, processing, configuration, access rights, contracts, and organizational measures.

What information is helpful in making a first contact?

Your most important concerns are your current systems and known limitations. For example, describe where administrative overhead arises or what dependencies you would like to reduce.

How much control do you want to gain over your IT?

Do you want to further develop your infrastructure or integrate open source alternatives? Please describe your current situation and your goals.

Whether it’s servers, networking, collaboration, or access data: In the initial discussion, we will clarify which topic is most important for your company and whether U2Open is the right solution.