Quick Start Guide
3.3 Keeping the System Up-to-date
openSUSE oers a continuous stream of software security patches for your product.
The update applet informs you about the availability of patches and lets you easily
install them with just a few clicks.
3.3.1 Using the KDE Updater Applet
The openSUSE community also provides updates to newer versions of software
packages. The updater applet optionally keeps a list of all programs installed on your
system and informs you whenever newer versions are available. The updater can
also search for and install new drivers when new hardware is attached.
NOTE: Patches vs. New Versions
The patches oered by openSUSE either x security holes or serious errors in the
software. A patch normally does not upgrade to a newer version and does not
oer additional functionality. A new program version oered by the community
may oer xes, too, but primarily adds new functionality.
The updater applet resides in the system tray of your panel depicting the head of
the SUSE mascot (Geeko), which changes depending on the availability and relevance
of patches and the status of the updater. Whenever the icon changes, a tool tip dis-
plays the current status. The applet is started by default. To start it manually, choose
Applications > System > Desktop Applet > Online Update Applet from the main
menu. Alternatively, press [Alt] + [F2] and enter kupdateapplet.
The updater icon shows the following states:
Green Geeko Head with Green Arrows
No patches available. When new versions are available, a tool tip appears when
the mouse is moved over the icon.
Green Geeko Head with Yellow Arrows
The updater applet is busy (for example checking for updates, installing software).
Red Triangle with Exclamation Mark
Security patches available.
Orange Star with Arrow
Recommended patches are available.
Blue square with Arrow
Optional patches are available.
Yellow Triangle with Exclamation Mark
An error has occurred.
44 Start-Up