openSUSE 10.3
Comparative Features and Benefits
Novell provides Linux operating systems such as SUSE Linux Enterprise Server and SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop for businesses that need a hardened, supported operating system for running IT infrastructure and corporate applications. Novell also provides openSUSE for technical individuals who want to keep up to speed with the latest and greatest open source code. The following table outlines the differences between Novell enterprise products and its openSUSE product.
Although not intended for business deployments, openSUSE 10.3 provides corporate evaluators with an excellent first look at technologies like Novell AppArmor (security), Xen (virtualization), OpenOffice.org (productivity suite), Xgl (3-D desktop acceleration), Beagle (desktop search) and Mono (open source development environment). These technologies, when refined and fully supported, may appear in future Novell enterprise Linux offerings.
| Enterprise | Enthusiast | |
| Products | SUSE Linux Enterprise Server SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop |
openSUSE 10.3 retail box |
| Target segments | IT buyers looking for a hardened, supported Linux platform backed by a reliable product release cycle | Linux users and technical enthusiasts, experienced computer users and community developers |
| Distribution channels | Direct, channel, OEM | Retail |
| Release strategy | 18–24 months | 8 months |
| Technical support | Comprehensive support options, available in flexible configurations | 90-day install only |
| Security patches | Yes | Limited availability |
| Software and driver updates | Yes | No |
| Update protection | Yes | No |
| Service-pack availability | Yes | No |
| ISV certifications | Yes | No |
| Hardware certifications | Yes | No |
| Indemnification | Yes | No |
| Lifecycle guarantee | Yes: seven years* | No |
| Printed manuals | No | Yes |
| Training | Yes | No |
| Consulting | Yes | No |
*Platform is guaranteed for seven years from date of general availability.