SUSE Linux 16 Release Candidate is Here: A First Look at the Future of Enterprise Linux

The future of enterprise Linux is here and you can be a part of it. We’re excited to announce the first public Release Candidate (RC) for the upcoming SUSE Linux 16 family of products. This is your chance to get a first-hand look at the next generation of our core offerings:

• SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 16.0
• SUSE Linux Enterprise for SAP applications 16.0
• SUSE Linux Enterprise High Availability Extension 16.0

These products share a unified core and are released on a synchronized timeline, ensuring a consistent and predictable experience across your entire environment.

For a more in-depth look at the vision behind this release, read our blog post: SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 16: Shaping the Future of Enterprise IT

What’s new in SUSE Linux 16?

SUSE Linux 16 is a major milestone, providing a robust foundation for enterprise innovation for years to come. Built on Framework One, it’s a platform ready to tackle the challenges of the next decade, with Linux fully prepared to run beyond Y2038.

This release is designed to:

• Enable rapid and continuous innovation with a flexible, modular lifecycle.
• Simplify your transition by integrating modern, widely used open source projects, making it easier to move from any enterprise Linux environment.
• Deliver enterprise-grade security and compliance, with full SELinux support and alignment with the strictest industry certifications.
• Provide long-term, predictable support cycles for a stable enterprise environment.
• Offer a ubiquitous platform that runs anywhere and is optimized for hybrid and cloud native environments.

We’ve also introduced a sleeker installation and management experience with technologies like the Agama installer, NetworkManager, Cockpit and deeper Ansible integration. For a deeper dive into these management changes and the role of the new Agama installer, check out our blog post on Systems Management with SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 16. Plus, we’re making transitions easier than ever with migration support from SUSE Linux Enterprise 15 SP7.

To reflect these changes, we’re transitioning from the Service Pack naming convention to minor releases, starting with SUSE Linux 16.0. This new approach provides a more predictable and streamlined update process for enterprises.

Get started with the release candidate

Ready to dive in? Here’s what you need to know.

Download the RC Products:

• SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 16.0 (https://www.suse.com/download/sles/)
• SUSE Linux Enterprise for SAP applications 16.0 (https://www.suse.com/download/sle-sap/ )
• SUSE Linux Enterprise High Availability Extension 16.0 (https://www.suse.com/download/sle-ha/ )

*Note that you will need to select “beta 16.0” to download the RC.

Get your beta registration code: A special beta registration code is required to access the beta online channels and repositories. Your regular SUSE Linux key will not work. To get your code and unlock your Beta Subscription, simply email us at beta-programs@suse.com. When you send your request, specify the products you want (SLES 16.0, SLES for SAP 16.0, SLE HA 16.0 or all) and the relevant architectures.

Documentation: Draft release notes and documentation are available now, though they are still a work in progress. You can find them at the following links:

• Release notes for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 16.0
• Release notes for SUSE Linux Enterprise for SAP Applications 16.0
• Release notes for SUSE Linux Enterprise High Availability Extension 16.0
• Agama installer details
• Draft product documentation can be found at https://susedoc.github.io/#sles16 including a document to explain high level differences (.https://susedoc.github.io/doc-modular/main/single-html/SLE-comparison/ )

Join the beta program today and help us shape the future of SUSE Linux. We look forward to your feedback!