How to install OpenSUSE Leap 15.4

8 min read 06-11-2024

Introduction

OpenSUSE Leap is a stable, enterprise-grade Linux distribution known for its reliability and extensive feature set. Leap 15.4 is the latest iteration, packed with improvements and new features, making it an attractive option for both seasoned Linux users and newcomers. Installing OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 is a straightforward process, and this guide will walk you through each step, from download to configuration.

Downloading OpenSUSE Leap 15.4

Before you start, ensure you have a suitable USB drive or DVD with at least 4GB of space. You can download the ISO image from the official OpenSUSE website.

Navigate to the OpenSUSE Download Page: Visit the OpenSUSE download page (https://software.opensuse.org/download.html).
Select the Appropriate Version: Choose "OpenSUSE Leap 15.4" from the list of available versions.
Download the ISO Image: Download the ISO image that corresponds to your system's architecture (either 64-bit or 32-bit).

Creating a Bootable USB Drive

You'll need a bootable USB drive to install OpenSUSE Leap 15.4. There are several methods for creating a bootable USB drive, and the best option depends on your operating system.

Windows

Download Rufus: Rufus is a popular and free tool that allows you to create bootable USB drives. Download the latest version from the official Rufus website (https://rufus.ie/).
Insert Your USB Drive: Connect your USB drive to your computer.
Launch Rufus: Open Rufus.
Select the ISO Image: In the Rufus window, select the OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 ISO image you downloaded.
Choose the Partition Scheme: Choose "GPT" for UEFI systems and "MBR" for legacy BIOS systems.
Select File System: Select "FAT32" for compatibility with both UEFI and legacy BIOS systems.
Start the Process: Click the "Start" button to create the bootable USB drive.

macOS

Use the Disk Utility: macOS includes a built-in Disk Utility that you can use to create bootable USB drives.
Connect Your USB Drive: Insert your USB drive into your Mac.
Launch Disk Utility: Open Disk Utility by searching for it in Spotlight.
Select Your USB Drive: Select your USB drive in the Disk Utility window.
Erase the Drive: Click the "Erase" button and format your USB drive with the following settings:
- Format: Mac OS Extended (Journaled)
- Scheme: GUID Partition Map (GPT)
Open Terminal: Open the Terminal application.
Mount the ISO Image: Mount the OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 ISO image using the following command, replacing "OpenSUSE-Leap-15.4-*.iso" with the actual name of your ISO file:
```
sudo hdiutil attach OpenSUSE-Leap-15.4-*.iso
```
Create the Bootable USB Drive: Use the following command, replacing "/Volumes/OpenSUSE" with the actual name of the mounted ISO volume and "/Volumes/YOUR_USB_DRIVE" with the name of your USB drive:
```
sudo dd if=/Volumes/OpenSUSE/Live/boot/x86_64/boot.img of=/Volumes/YOUR_USB_DRIVE bs=1m
```
Unmount the ISO Image: Unmount the ISO image using the following command:
```
sudo hdiutil detach /Volumes/OpenSUSE 
```

Linux

Use the 'dd' Command: The 'dd' command is a versatile tool for creating bootable USB drives on Linux. Open a terminal window and run the following command, replacing "OpenSUSE-Leap-15.4-*.iso" with the name of your ISO file and "/dev/sdX" with the correct device name for your USB drive:
```
sudo dd if=OpenSUSE-Leap-15.4-*.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M
```
Important: Ensure you have the correct device name for your USB drive. Incorrect usage of the 'dd' command can overwrite your hard drive.

Booting from the USB Drive

Once your USB drive is ready, you can boot your computer from it. The process varies slightly depending on your computer's BIOS settings.

Enter BIOS: Restart your computer and press the designated key to enter BIOS. The key you need to press is usually F2, F10, F12, or Delete, but it can vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer.
Change Boot Order: In the BIOS settings, locate the "Boot Order" or "Boot Priority" option. Select your USB drive as the first boot device.
Save and Exit: Save the BIOS settings and exit. Your computer will now boot from the USB drive.

OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 Installation

You're now ready to begin the installation process. The OpenSUSE installer is user-friendly and provides clear instructions.

Welcome Screen: The installer will guide you through the process with a series of screens. Select the desired language.
Installation Type: Choose between "Expert Install" and "Installation Type."
- Expert Install: Provides more advanced options, including partitioning and package selection.
- Installation Type: Offers pre-defined installation options, including "Full Install," "Minimal Install," and "Custom Install."
Partitioning: If you chose "Expert Install," you'll need to manually partition your hard drive. The installer will automatically create a basic partition layout, or you can customize it for your needs. Ensure you have sufficient space for your operating system and any data you want to store.
Select Language: Choose your preferred language.
Timezone: Set your correct timezone.
Keyboard Layout: Select your keyboard layout.
Network Configuration: Configure your network connection. You can either choose to connect to Wi-Fi or connect via Ethernet.
User Accounts: Create a user account for your system. You'll need to provide a username and password.
Install the System: Once you've completed all the necessary settings, click the "Install" button to begin the installation process. This may take a few minutes.
Reboot: After the installation completes, reboot your computer. You'll now be able to log in to your new OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 system.

Post-Installation Configuration

After the initial installation, you may want to perform some additional configurations. These include:

Install Software: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 comes with a wide range of pre-installed software, but you can install more applications through the YaST Software Management tool. YaST is a powerful command-line and graphical tool that lets you manage your system, including installing and removing software.
Update Your System: After installing, it's a good practice to update your system to ensure you have the latest security patches and bug fixes. You can update your system by running the following command in a terminal window:
```
sudo zypper update
```
Configure Your Desktop Environment: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 includes several desktop environments, including KDE Plasma, GNOME, and Xfce. You can customize your desktop environment to suit your preferences.
Install Drivers: Depending on your hardware, you may need to install drivers to ensure everything functions correctly. OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 usually comes with the necessary drivers for most hardware, but you may need to install additional drivers for specialized devices. You can install drivers using the YaST Software Management tool.

Using OpenSUSE Leap 15.4

Once your installation is complete, you'll have access to a stable and feature-rich Linux distribution. Here are some things you can do with OpenSUSE Leap 15.4:

Explore the Desktop Environment: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 offers a variety of desktop environments, each with its unique interface and features. Explore these environments to find one that suits your preferences.
Install Software: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 offers a vast collection of software packages available through the YaST Software Management tool or by using the command line. You can install all kinds of software, including productivity tools, web browsers, media players, and games.
Manage Your System: YaST is a powerful tool for managing your system. You can use it to configure network settings, manage users and groups, partition your hard drive, and perform other system-level tasks.
Use the Command Line: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 includes a powerful command-line interface that gives you full control over your system. You can use the command line to install software, manage files, and perform advanced system administration tasks.

Conclusion

OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 is a robust and reliable Linux distribution that offers a stable and feature-rich experience. Installing OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 is a straightforward process, and this guide has provided a step-by-step walkthrough to guide you through each stage. From downloading the ISO image to configuring your new system, you'll have everything you need to get started. Whether you're a seasoned Linux user or a curious beginner, OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 is an excellent choice for your next Linux adventure.

FAQs

Q: What are the system requirements for OpenSUSE Leap 15.4?

A: The minimum system requirements for OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 are:

Processor: 1 GHz processor (dual-core or better recommended)
RAM: 2 GB (4 GB or more recommended)
Hard Disk Space: 20 GB (more recommended for applications and data)
Graphics Card: Support for a resolution of at least 1024x768 pixels
Network Card: Ethernet or Wi-Fi for network connectivity
Optical Drive: DVD-ROM drive (optional for installing from DVD)

Q: Can I install OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 alongside my current operating system?

A: Yes, you can install OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 alongside your existing operating system by using a dual-boot configuration. The installer will guide you through the process of partitioning your hard drive to accommodate both operating systems.

Q: What is the difference between OpenSUSE Leap and OpenSUSE Tumbleweed?

A: OpenSUSE Leap and OpenSUSE Tumbleweed are both popular OpenSUSE distributions, but they have different release models.

OpenSUSE Leap: Is a stable distribution with a fixed release cycle, typically released every six months. It focuses on stability and enterprise-grade features.
OpenSUSE Tumbleweed: Is a rolling release distribution, meaning it receives constant updates with new software packages and features. Tumbleweed is ideal for users who want the latest software and features but are willing to accept the potential for instability.

Q: What are the benefits of using OpenSUSE Leap 15.4?

A: OpenSUSE Leap 15.4 offers several advantages, including:

Stability and Reliability: Leap is known for its stability and enterprise-grade features.
Extensive Software Repositories: OpenSUSE Leap has a vast collection of software packages available through its repositories.
Powerful Management Tools: The YaST tool provides a comprehensive interface for managing your system.
Community Support: OpenSUSE has a vibrant and supportive community that offers assistance and resources.

Q: What are some common challenges users face when installing OpenSUSE Leap 15.4?

A: Some common challenges include:

Partitioning: Manually partitioning your hard drive can be complex for novice users.
Driver Compatibility: Some specialized hardware may require additional drivers.
Network Configuration: Setting up your network connection can be tricky, especially if you're using a wired connection.

Q: Where can I find more information and support for OpenSUSE Leap 15.4?

A: You can find extensive documentation, tutorials, and support resources on the official OpenSUSE website (https://www.opensuse.org/). The OpenSUSE community forums are another excellent source of help and information.