I have recently downloaded SuSE 9.3 from a SuSE mirror and installed it. What I got was what SuSE dubs "SuSE Linux 9.3 ftp version". After installing it on two machines, I liked it so well (the most stable, most functional Linux I have ever used) that I have ordered the retail boxed set, to reward these guys for their excellent work.

Now the question: is there any difference between the two? Should I "upgrade" my ftp version to the boxed version (which would amount to a reinstall)? SuSE doesn't say on their web site that the two are identical, but it also doesn't say that they are different in any way. I keep hearing rumors of extra commercial software on the retail version that aren't available on the ftp version.

Can anyone comment? Are there any signficant differences between the ftp version and the retail version? Is it worth "upgrading" once the retail version arrives (ordered it from Amazon)? Thanks!

In my mind, if everything is working fine for you, do not upgrade. You will get some software not found on the FTP, but since you aren't asking "why is this not working" questions, I wouldn't sweat it.

In my expereince, SUSE has a habit of breaking when upgrading. If you do want to use the new disks for an install, do a new install with a fresh format first. Otherwise the disks have lots of packages on them, you probably do not need to go to the internet to get RPMS.