How to install openSUSE from a USB drive
This guide covers installing openSUSE from a bootable USB drive. The steps below suit most computers made in the last decade. Screens vary slightly between versions.
Before you begin
- Back up anything you care about. See how to back up before installing Linux.
- Check you have about 4 GB of RAM or more, and a spare 20 GB or more of disk space for a desktop install.
- Plug a laptop into power so it cannot shut down part-way.
- Have your openSUSE bootable USB drive ready.
Install steps
- Insert the USB drive and restart. Open the boot menu (see boot menu keys by brand) and choose the USB drive.
- When openSUSE starts, use the openSUSE installer to begin. If it offers a live session, test Wi-Fi, sound and graphics first.
- Choose your language, keyboard layout and time zone.
- Choose where to install. To keep another system, see dual booting. To use the whole disk, pick the erase-disk option and confirm only when you are sure.
- Create your user name and a strong password, then start the installation.
- When it finishes, remove the USB drive and restart into openSUSE.
After installing
Updates arrive in tested batches, so you get newer software without the surprises of a pure rolling release.
To update openSUSE from a terminal, run:
sudo zypper dup (Tumbleweed) or sudo zypper update (Leap)
If it will not start
- Try turning off Secure Boot if the drive is ignored.
- Check UEFI vs Legacy settings.
- Read how to fix a USB drive that will not boot.
Want to know more first? Read what openSUSE is and who it is for.
Installing software on openSUSE
openSUSE uses zypper. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
zypper search name sudo zypper install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the installation take?
Most installs take 20 to 40 minutes, plus time to start from the USB drive and apply updates afterwards. Older computers and USB 2.0 drives take longer.
Will installing openSUSE delete my files?
It depends on the option you choose. The erase-disk option removes everything on that disk. Installing alongside another system keeps it, but you should still back up first.
What size USB drive do I need?
A drive of 8 GB or more is enough for most distributions, and 16 GB gives room for extras. See how to pick the right USB drive size.
Do I need to turn off Secure Boot?
Many mainstream distributions start with Secure Boot on, but not all do. If the USB drive is ignored or you see a security error, turn Secure Boot off temporarily in your firmware settings.
How do I update openSUSE afterwards?
Run sudo zypper dup (Tumbleweed) or sudo zypper update (Leap) in a terminal, or use the graphical update tool.