SUSE Linux Enterprise Live Patching
Patch management software
Vulnerability management software
- Features
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- Ease of management
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$799 per 1 year subscription
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What is SUSE Linux Enterprise Live Patching
SUSE Linux Enterprise Live Patching is a capability for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server that applies selected Linux kernel security fixes without requiring a system reboot. It is used by IT operations and platform teams running Linux workloads that need to reduce downtime while maintaining patch compliance. The service focuses on kernel live patches (not full OS or application patching) and is typically consumed as part of SUSE’s enterprise Linux subscription and lifecycle tooling.
Reduces reboot-driven downtime
It applies eligible kernel security fixes while the system remains running, which helps maintain uptime for production workloads. This is particularly relevant for environments where reboot windows are difficult to schedule. It can reduce operational disruption compared with traditional patch cycles that require restarts.
Purpose-built for SLES kernel
The live patches are produced and supported for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server kernels, aligning with SUSE’s tested kernel and update streams. This tight coupling can simplify supportability and change control for teams standardized on SLES. It also avoids the need to build custom live patches in-house.
Supports compliance patch workflows
Live patching can be used alongside standard update processes to address urgent kernel CVEs faster while deferring reboots to planned maintenance windows. This helps organizations meet internal patch SLAs for critical vulnerabilities. It complements broader endpoint/server management tools that orchestrate patch deployment but still require reboots for kernel changes.
Limited to kernel fixes
It does not replace general patch management for user-space packages, middleware, or applications. Organizations still need standard package updates and vulnerability remediation processes for non-kernel components. A full patch program typically combines live patching with regular maintenance updates and periodic reboots.
Not all CVEs covered
Only certain kernel fixes are eligible for live patching, depending on technical feasibility and SUSE’s live patch coverage. Some kernel updates will still require a reboot to fully remediate. Teams must validate whether a specific vulnerability is addressed via live patching or requires a conventional update and restart.
SUSE Linux Enterprise dependency
The capability is designed for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server and does not provide cross-platform patching across heterogeneous OS estates. Organizations with mixed Linux distributions and Windows fleets will need additional tooling and processes to manage patching consistently. This can increase operational complexity in multi-OS environments.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (includes Live Patching) — Standard, x86-64, 1-2 sockets | $799 per 1 year; $2,157 per 3 years; $3,596 per 5 years | Standard (12x5) support; Live Patching included by default with SLES; response times: 2h Sev1, 4h Sev2, next business day Sev3/4. (MSRP shown on SUSE shop). |
| SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (includes Live Patching) — Standard, x86-64, 1-2 sockets with unlimited virtual machines | $425 per 1 year; $1,148 per 3 years; $1,913 per 5 years | Standard support; entitlement covers unlimited VMs under the listed socket license; Live Patching included. (MSRP shown on SUSE shop). |
| SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP Applications — with Live Patching, x86-64, 1-2 sockets or 1-2 VMs — Priority subscription | €3,456.95 per 1 year; €9,362.92 per 3 years; €15,605.66 per 5 years | Priority (24x7) support options available; SKU explicitly labelled “with Live Patching” on SUSE shop. (MSRP shown on SUSE shop). |
Seller details
SUSE S.A.
Luxembourg, Luxembourg
1992
Private
https://www.suse.com/
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