Welcome to SUSE's ISV Development and Compatibility Resources

SUSE Linux Enterprise Application Compatibility

This page provides resources to help you certify, develop, and maintain your applications on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES). Whether you’re ensuring compatibility with SLES or integrating SUSE-specific features alongside support for other Linux distributions, we are here to assist you.

Our Commitment to Compatibility

At SUSE, we prioritize “userspace application compatibility” to ensure a stable and predictable environment for ISVs. Our engineering policy guarantees no userspace application compatibility breaks across service packs or minor updates within a major release cycle.

For most ISVs, certifications for their applications remain valid throughout the entire lifecycle of a major version.

Kernel-Level Changes

While userspace compatibility is preserved, kernel-level changes introduced in some service packs, such as SLES 15 SP3, may impact ISVs developing kernel modules. For this reason, ISVs with kernel dependencies must validate and recertify their applications for each service pack.

If your applications rely on kernel modules, our ISV team is available to support your migration or recertification efforts.

Why Choose SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)?

SLES is a powerful, flexible platform that helps ISVs deliver reliable and innovative solutions to their customers. Key benefits include:

  • Stability and Longevity: SUSE rigorously tests for library and ABI compatibility during Quality Assurance and regression testing for each service pack.
  • Enterprise-Ready: SLES offers a robust ecosystem of tools, modules, and certifications to meet modern enterprise demands.
  • Forward-Looking Development: With modern tools like GNU GCC 7 support for cutting-edge technologies, SLES enables ISVs to build applications that are ready for the future.
Key Features and Considerations

System and Service Management

  • Systemd: SLES uses systemd for service management, replacing SysV init. While LSB-compliant init scripts are supported, testing and updates are recommended for optimal performance.
    • Command Syntax:
      • systemctl reload|restart|start|status|stop <service>.service
      • Example: systemctl restart apache2.service
  • Networking with Wicked:
    • SLES continues to use wicked for network configuration, maintaining backward compatibility with sysconfig-style configurations. However, future releases will transition to NetworkManager.

Compiler and Architecture

  • Modern Development Tools
    • SLES 15 includes GNU GCC 7+ for system development. Each service pack provides updated compilers to enable ISVs to adopt the latest features.
  • 32-bit Support:
    • Runtime environments for 32-bit x86 applications are available via Legacy Modules but will be deprecated in the next major release. ISVs are encouraged to plan migrations to 64-bit platforms.

Modular Design

SLES 15 adopts a modular approach to simplify package management and lifecycle support. If your required packages aren’t found in the default installation, explore the following modules:

  • Advanced Systems Management Module
  • Legacy Module
  • Web and Scripting Module

For the full list of modules, consult the SUSE documentation.

Best Practices for ISV Development on SLES

Testing and Validation

  • Validate your application’s compatibility across service packs, particularly if it includes kernel modules.
  • Test applications using the latest tools and runtime environments available in SLES service packs.

Portability Across Distributions

  • Use LSB-compliant practices to maximize compatibility with other Linux distributions. Although LSB’s relevance has diminished, its principles still apply to creating portable applications.

Cross-Distribution Compatibility

For applications supported on multiple Linux distributions, consider:

  • Init Scripts and RPMs: Ensure compatibility with both SUSE Linux and other distributions (e.g., Red Hat).
  • Kernel Modules: Leverage tools like DKMS for dynamic kernel module building.
Support and Resources

ISV Support Team

SUSE’s ISV team is available to assist with development, certification, and troubleshooting efforts. Whether you’re integrating new features or adapting to service pack updates, we’re here to help.

Documentation and Tutorials

Training and Guidance

  • Explore SUSE’s partner resources and training opportunities to stay up to date with the latest tools and best practices.

For additional assistance, reach out to our ISV Partner Program.

Achieving SUSE Ready Certification

The SUSE Ready program enables ISVs to self-certify their applications for compatibility with SUSE Linux Enterprise. This non-prescriptive process allows ISVs to determine their own adequate testing, ensuring their products meet the highest compatibility standards. Key steps include:

  • Testing and Validation: Perform thorough compatibility tests across SLES versions and service packs.
  • Verification of Dependencies: Ensure all required libraries and tools are compatible with the target SLES environment.
  • Customer Assurance: Declare commercial support for your application on SLES, allowing customers to trust its compatibility.

For more details on achieving SUSE Ready certification, consult the SUSE ISV Partner Program documentation.