SUSE Linux & openSUSE Leap NetworkManager security update (SUSE-OU-2025:03094-1) is now available. This low-impact patch adds WWAN support and enhances mobile broadband connectivity for enterprise systems. Learn how to apply the fix via YaST or zypper to maintain system integrity and network reliabili
Severity Rating: Low
Are you managing a fleet of SUSE Linux Enterprise servers or openSUSE Leap workstations? A new optional update for the critical NetworkManager service has been released, focusing on expanding hardware compatibility and ensuring seamless network management.
This patch, while rated as low severity, is essential for administrators utilizing cellular WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) cards for redundant or mobile internet connections.
Maintaining robust enterprise Linux security and functionality hinges on applying consistent system updates.
This particular patch demonstrates SUSE's commitment to backward compatibility and hardware support, key factors for enterprise IT environments where system stability is paramount.
What Does This NetworkManager Patch Fix?
The core update addresses a single, specific issue tracked under Bugzilla ID bsc#1246113.
The Change: The update formally adds the NetworkManager-wwan package to the SLE Module for Desktop Applications in version 15-SP7. This package provides the necessary plugins and utilities for managing mobile broadband (4G/5G) connections through NetworkManager's unified interface.
Why It Matters: For sysadmins, this means more robust and integrated management of all network interfaces, including cellular modems, directly from the same trusted toolset used for Ethernet and Wi-Fi. This enhances network reliability for deployed systems in remote locations or for failover scenarios, a critical aspect of modern IT infrastructure management.
Affected Products and Systems
This update is available for a wide range of SUSE's current product lines. If you are running any of the following Linux distribution versions, you should consider this update:
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP6 & SP7 (including for SAP Applications)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 15 SP6 & SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time 15 SP6 & SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Workstation Extension 15 SP6 & SP7
openSUSE Leap 15.6
Basesystem Module 15-SP6 & 15-SP7
Desktop Applications Module 15-SP6 & 15-SP7
Step-by-Step: How to Apply This Update
Applying this patch follows standard SUSE maintenance procedures. You can use the graphical YaST online_update tool or the command-line interface for efficiency, especially for automated server deployments.
Installation via Zypper Command Line
For precision, use the specific zypper patch command tailored to your product:
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP7 / Desktop 15 SP7:
zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Product-SLES-15-SP7-2025-3094=1
(ReplaceSLESwithSLEDfor Desktop)openSUSE Leap 15.6:
zypper in -t patch openSUSE-SLE-15.6-2025-3094=1SUSE Linux Enterprise Workstation Extension 15 SP7:
zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Product-WE-15-SP7-2025-3094=1
For a full list of all product-specific commands, please refer to the original bulletin on the SUSE Customer Center.
Technical Deep Dive: Updated Packages
This update delivers refreshed RPM packages from the SUSE maintenance repository. Key packages include the core NetworkManager daemon, the new NetworkManager-wwan component, debugging symbols (-debuginfo), and development libraries (-devel).
For instance, systems receiving the NetworkManager-wwan package will see its version number updated to 1.44.2-150600.3.4.1, ensuring consistency across the entire network management stack. This version control is crucial for system administrators who need to verify patch compliance across hundreds of machines.
Best Practices for Enterprise Patch Management
While this is a low-risk update, it serves as a reminder of best practices:
Test in Staging First: Always deploy updates to a non-production environment first to validate compatibility with your specific configuration.
Schedule Maintenance Windows: Apply system updates during planned maintenance periods to minimize user impact.
Verify Success: Use commands like
rpm -qa | grep NetworkManagerto confirm the new package versions are installed correctly.
Proactive Linux server maintenance is not just about security; it's about ensuring optimal performance and hardware support, as demonstrated by this update.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this a critical security update?
A: No. SUSE has rated this update with a "low" severity rating. It is a functional enhancement to add WWAN support rather than address a critical vulnerability.
Q: Do I need to reboot my server after applying this patch?
A: It is generally recommended to restart the NetworkManager service (systemctl restart NetworkManager) after updating its packages. A full system reboot is typically not mandatory for this type of update but can be done as a precaution during a maintenance window.
Q: What is WWAN, and why would I need it?
A: WWAN refers to cellular network connectivity (like 4G LTE or 5G). It's crucial for servers in remote locations without wired internet, for providing network failover, or for mobile systems like those in vehicles or field equipment.
Q: Where can I find the original security bulletin?
A: The official reference is on the SUSE support portal: SUSE Bug #1246113.
Conclusion
Staying current with system updates is a cornerstone of professional Linux system administration.
This NetworkManager patch, while optional, enhances the platform's capability to manage diverse network interfaces, future-proofing your infrastructure. Review your systems today and plan the deployment of this update to maintain the highest levels of network reliability and compatibility.

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