openSUSE as a Server: What does the popular SuSE Linux successor offer in Germany?

Over the years, openSUSE, formerly known as SuSE Linux, has evolved from a simple Linux distribution into a robust platform for server infrastructures. But what exactly does this Linux variant, especially popular in Germany, offer? The following article provides a comprehensive overview of openSUSE as a server operating system.

What sets openSUSE apart?

openSUSE is a free and open-source Linux distribution developed and maintained by the openSUSE community and the company SUSE Software Solutions Germany GmbH. It is based on the commercial SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and is known for its robust performance, high stability, and extensive feature set.

openSUSE is suitable for both desktops and servers and comes in two main versions: openSUSE Leap and openSUSE Tumbleweed. Leap is a regular version focusing on stability and reliability, receiving a new major version every 12 months. Tumbleweed, on the other hand, is a rolling distribution providing continuous updates for all system components, ideal for users who always want the latest software versions.

One of the most notable features of openSUSE is YaST (Yet another Setup Tool), a unified configuration and installation tool offering a graphical interface for a variety of system settings. It allows users to easily install new software, configure hardware, set up the network, and perform other system tasks.

Furthermore, openSUSE has an active and dedicated community focused on continuously improving and updating the system, contributing to the ongoing enhancement of openSUSE's stability, performance, and security.

What technical aspects make openSUSE servers stand out?

openSUSE is a powerful, stable, and secure server operating system, offering flexibility, the extensive administration tool YaST, an active community, and broad support for open-source software, making it an attractive choice for various server environments.

• Stability and Reliability

openSUSE is based on the SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and benefits from its commercial support and rigorous quality controls. This results in high stability and reliability, essential for use in server environments.

• Security

openSUSE places a strong emphasis on security. It provides an integrated firewall by default and has strict user and file permission policies. Additionally, updates and patches are promptly available to address security vulnerabilities.

• YaST (Yet Another Setup Tool)

This comprehensive administration tool simplifies system management by enabling the installation and configuration of software, setting network parameters, system updates, and other tasks through a user-friendly graphical interface or a command-line interface.

• Scalability and Flexibility

openSUSE can run on a variety of hardware platforms, from single servers to large cluster systems. It is also compatible with various file systems and provides support for virtual machines and containers, making it a flexible choice for different applications and environments.

• Support for Open-Source Software

openSUSE offers an extensive repository with thousands of pre-packaged open-source software packages, making it easier to set up and operate services on an openSUSE server.

• Active Community and Support

The openSUSE community is very active and provides support for issues. It also regularly publishes documentation and guides to facilitate the management of openSUSE servers.

In summary, openSUSE offers a combination of performance, stability, security, and flexibility, making it an attractive choice for deploying a variety of web applications.

Find offers for suitable openSUSE VPS hosting or openSUSE Dedicated Server, as well as openSUSE Cloud Server in comparison.

OpenSUSE Versions and Lifecycle

openSUSE has two main versions designed for different use cases:

openSUSE Leap

Leap is the regular release version of openSUSE, focusing on stability and reliability. It is particularly suitable for servers and productive work environments where a consistent environment is required. Each Leap version is typically supported for about 18 months, after which users should upgrade to the latest version to continue receiving security updates and bug fixes. Leap follows the release cycle of SUSE Linux Enterprise, benefiting from its thorough quality assurance and long-term support.

openSUSE Tumbleweed

Tumbleweed is the rolling release version of openSUSE and is constantly updated with the latest versions of all its software packages. It is particularly suitable for users who always want to use the latest features and improvements, such as developers and technology enthusiasts. As it is a rolling release, there is no fixed lifecycle - users receive continuous updates as long as they keep their systems active.

Both versions offer the same core features, including the YaST configuration tool and support for a variety of software packages, but differ in their update and support model. Therefore, the choice between Leap and Tumbleweed depends heavily on the individual user's requirements and preferences.

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server as a commercial derivative

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is the commercial distribution of SUSE and is a key component of the SUSE portfolio. Unlike openSUSE, which is mainly aimed at home users and developers, SLES is specifically tailored for use in businesses and organisations that require a high level of stability, security, and support.

Some of the key features of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server include:

• Long-term support: Each version of SLES is supported for an extended period - typically for at least 10 years. This gives businesses the assurance that they can operate their systems over a longer period without worrying about the end of support and the need for upgrades.

• Advanced security features: SLES includes numerous security features, including an integrated firewall, SELinux for advanced access controls, and support for security standards such as FIPS 140-2.

• High availability and clustering: SLES provides support for high availability systems and clustering, making it a good choice for critical applications where downtime is not tolerated.

• Commercial support: SLES users have access to professional support from SUSE, including 24/7 support for critical issues. This can be crucial for businesses reliant on their IT systems and in need of quick assistance when problems arise.

• Compatibility with openSUSE Leap: Since 2015, openSUSE Leap has been based on the same code as SLES. This means that businesses can use openSUSE Leap as a kind of "testing ground" before migrating their applications and systems to SLES.

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is therefore an excellent choice for businesses in need of a powerful and reliable Linux-based operating system for their servers.

SuSE Linux as the Predecessor

SuSE Linux, the predecessor of openSUSE, was originally developed in the early 1990s in Germany by S.u.S.E. GmbH and was one of the first commercial distributions to utilise the free Linux kernel. The abbreviation "SUSE" stands for "Software und System-Entwicklung".

SuSE Linux was valued for its user-friendliness and extensive set of supported hardware and software. One of the most notable aspects of SuSE Linux was the development of the YaST (Yet Another Setup Tool) administration tool, which significantly simplified the management of the operating system.

In 2003, SuSE Linux was acquired by Novell, an American company known in the 80s and 90s for its network operating systems. Under Novell's leadership, the openSUSE project was launched in 2005, a free and open-source community version of SuSE Linux aimed at accelerating the development of the operating system and reaching a larger user base.

Today, openSUSE is managed and further developed by SUSE Software Solutions Germany GmbH, a subsidiary of EQT Partners, while the original SuSE Linux continues in the form of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop (SLED), two commercial distributions focused on stability and support for enterprise applications.

What are the Weaknesses of openSUSE as a Server Operating System?

Although openSUSE has many strengths as a server operating system, there are also some aspects that could be considered potential weaknesses. However, these heavily depend on the specific requirements and expectations of the particular use case. The following points should be considered:

• Commercial Support: While openSUSE has strong community support, it does not offer the same level of professional commercial support as its commercial counterpart, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server. This could be a disadvantage for companies requiring 24/7 support or guaranteed response times.

• Certifications and Partnerships: Compared to some other major Linux distributions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Ubuntu, openSUSE has fewer partnerships with third-party software providers. Therefore, certain commercial software products may not be officially certified for openSUSE.

• Release Cycle: The release cycle of openSUSE Leap could be a concern for some businesses. With a new major release every 12 months, organisations that value long-term stability may find the release cycle too rapid.

• Market Share: While openSUSE has many fans in Germany, its market share in the international server sector is significantly smaller compared to other Linux distributions. This may impact the availability of professionals familiar with openSUSE.

• Complexity: openSUSE offers many powerful features and configuration options that may have a learning curve, especially for international administrators who are only familiar with other Linux distributions.

These points may not necessarily be "weaknesses" but rather challenges or considerations to keep in mind when choosing openSUSE as a server operating system.

openSUSE Compared to Other Server Operating Systems

When selecting the right server operating system, it is important to consider the differences and unique characteristics of each alternative:

openSUSE vs Debian

openSUSE and Debian are two powerful Linux distributions, but they differ in their design philosophies and use cases. While openSUSE stands out for its close ties to SUSE Linux Enterprise, the powerful administration tool YaST, and the hybrid release model (regular and rolling releases), Debian is known for its vast package availability, stability, and strict adherence to the free software philosophy. The choice between the two depends heavily on the specific requirements and preferences of the user, whether it's stability, software freedom, enterprise support, or system management.

openSUSE vs Ubuntu

openSUSE and Ubuntu are two popular Linux distributions that focus on different aspects. openSUSE excels in flexibility and the choice between a stable (Leap) or rolling (Tumbleweed) release, as well as the powerful configuration tool YaST. On the other hand, Ubuntu is known for its user-friendly interface, widespread popularity, and strong support from the company Canonical, making it a preferred choice for Linux beginners and cloud infrastructures.

openSUSE vs Windows Server

openSUSE and Windows Server are two fundamentally different operating systems with different strengths and target audiences. openSUSE offers high adaptability and extensive community support with its open-source structure, flexible choice between stable or rolling releases, and comprehensive configuration tool YaST. In contrast, Windows Server provides tight integration with other Microsoft products and services, extensive commercial support, and is often the preferred choice in enterprise environments heavily reliant on Windows-based applications and infrastructures.

Ultimately, the choice of the appropriate server operating system heavily depends on specific requirements and context. However, openSUSE stands out for its high stability, extensive functionality, and broad support from an active community.

For more information on the differences between various Linux distributions, you can also refer to the article: Best Linux for Servers: Which Distributions Are Suitable?

When Should an openSUSE Server Be Preferred?

openSUSE has a strong community of developers and enthusiasts who work on open-source projects and in development environments. Additionally, the rolling release model of Tumbleweed is ideal for users who always need the latest software versions.

Since openSUSE Leap and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) share the same code, openSUSE can serve as a testing environment for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES). This allows companies to test new software and updates before deploying them in the production environment.

openSUSE offers a variety of educational and scientific software packages, and its community is known for its openness and helpfulness. This can make it an attractive choice for schools and universities.

openSUSE's YaST is one of the most comprehensive graphical system management tools among Linux distributions. It allows for easy configuration and management of software, services, and hardware, making it ideal for users who need a strong GUI management tool.

Our article is based on our own experiences and research as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:

https://www.opensuse.org/ (Official website of openSUSE)

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