SUSE Linux

Should I Update to the Latest SUSE Linux?

To answer this question, you need to know exactly what you expect from Linux.

The general rule is, "never change a running system". Therefore, if your system is a stable stand-alone machine that is merely connected to external networks via modem or ISDN and you do not depend on any additional features provided by a new release, an update makes little sense.

Individual applications can easily be updated in SUSE Linux; this does not require an update of the entire system to a new version of SUSE Linux.

developers

If you are a software developer, you are doubtlessly aware of the breathtaking development speed of Linux. In this case, regular updates are advisable in order to keep pace with the development. Our subscription offer enables you to obtain inexpensive update versions. Updates and other products can be ordered online at our webstore.

server

If you deploy your system as a server, you should consider that system security is an area in which new developments occur frequently. In this connection, we publish topical information at http://www.novell.com/linux/security/securitysupport.html. At this URL, you can also find patches and descriptions for protecting your server against external attacks. Moreover, we recommend that you sign up for our mailing list suse-security-announce here. In this way, you will regularly be notified by e-mail about security-specific developments. Nevertheless, you should change as little as possible in a reliable running system. However, security is always of utmost importance.

normal users

If you are a normal user and want to get acquainted with Linux, utilize it for educational purposes, and make use of the included applications, we recommend an update to the new version in case your distribution is older than SUSE Linux 8.2.

The following web page lists important improvements and new features of the latest version:
SUSE Linux: What's new?.