Built for computers that can't upgrade to Windows 10
With Microsoft's Windows 10 approaching the end of support in October 2025, many schools will be faced with obsolete computing equipment unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations. To address this critical educational technology gap, our School Software, CReSED, provides a robust, affordable, and comprehensive solution that integrates seamlessly into the school’s existing infrastructure.
Your Computers Aren’t Outdated, Your Software Is.
Most schools, universities, and TAFE's already have the computers they need. What’s holding them back isn’t old hardware—it’s the bloated, expensive, and resource-hungry software that came with it.
CReSED (Cloud-Ready Secure Education Distribution) is the solution. Designed in Australia and built on top of the powerful Linux platform, CReSED is a full-featured, open-source operating system tailored specifically for education. It gives you everything Microsoft does—Word, Excel, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams equivalents—but without the massive licensing fees, performance drag, or hardware upgrade requirements.
If you're running Windows 10 and can't upgrade to Windows 11, you don't need new devices. You need CReSED.
What is CReSED™?
CReSED is Linux–based operating system developed by Digital Education Systems. It’s not just an operating system—it’s a complete educational ecosystem that:
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Revitalises old computers
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Integrates fully with cloud platforms
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Delivers classroom-ready tools out of the box
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Includes full security, user management, and productivity software
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Costs just $50 per year for the full CReSED stack
Whether you're a K–12 school, a university faculty, or a remote training organisation, CReSED gives your institution the tools it needs to thrive—without locking you into the Microsoft or Apple ecosystem.
Why Education Needs a New OS
Schools and universities are facing a perfect storm:
Windows 10 reaches end of support in 2025.
This means thousands of perfectly functional devices are headed for landfill unless you buy new ones—or switch to CReSED.
- Budgets are tight.
Software subscriptions, antivirus costs, and constant upgrades add up. CReSED dramatically reduces licensing fees without sacrificing functionality. - Security threats are growing.
CReSED is built on Linux, which includes 10 years of security updates, kernel live patching, and advanced compliance tools. Combined with Crystal Eye EDU security platforms, your school network is always protected. - Cloud platforms matter more than ever.
CReSED is fully integrated with Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Nextcloud, and more. Students can log in, save work, collaborate, and access email—without ever worrying about compatibility.
What Comes with CReSED™?
Out of the box, CReSED™ includes:
LibreOffice
The complete Microsoft Office alternative (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access equivalents). Supports .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx natively.
Multimedia Suite
Video editing (Kdenlive), audio production (Audacity), and image editing (GIMP), all preinstalled.
Browser-Based Tools
CReSED includes Mozilla Firefox and Chromium browsers, ready for Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, Moodle, Canva, YouTube, and everything modern education uses.
Email & Calendar
Thunderbird mail with built-in calendar and address book, or connect directly to Gmail/Outlook using browser-based access.
STEM Ready
Python, Jupyter Notebooks, Arduino IDE, and Scratch all come standard, making CReSED the perfect coding and robotics platform.
Accessibility Options
Dyslexic-friendly fonts, screen readers, and keyboard navigation features ensure inclusivity for all students.
Local Server Support
Integrate with your school's Active Directory or replace it completely with our Samba-based directory service and secure file server.
Linux Security
Live kernel patching, full CVE coverage for 23,000+ packages, FIPS and CIS compliance (ideal for government reporting), and 24/7 security updates.
Cost Comparison: CReSED vs Microsoft
| Feature | Microsoft 365 + Windows 11 | CReSED |
|---|---|---|
| OS Licensing | $50–$100/year per device | $50 per year (negotiable) |
| Office Suite | Included, but costly | LibreOffice (Included) |
| Cloud Storage Integration | OneDrive | OneDrive/Google/Nextcloud |
| Security Updates | Requires AV + Patch Mgmt | 10 years |
| Hardware Requirements | Requires modern CPUs | Runs on 15+ year-old devices |
| System Management Tools | Intune, Azure AD | Samba AD |
| STEM/Multimedia Tools | Optional Add-ons | Preinstalled |
| Anti-Virus | Optional Add-on | Preinstalled |
Designed to Work With What You Have
Whether you're running a computer lab of old Dells or managing a BYOD fleet across a university campus, CReSED is made to integrate, not disrupt.
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Use existing monitors, keyboards, printers, and smartboards.
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Connect to your existing file servers or use Nextcloud for seamless online sharing.
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Sync documents and calendars through Google or Microsoft 365.
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Replace Microsoft Teams with Element, Jitsi Meet, or BigBlueButton.
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Replace SharePoint with our secure Samba/Nextcloud integration.