Installing Microsoft Edge on Linux: A Step-by-Step Guide for Ubuntu and Mint Users

As of August 2024, Microsoft Edge has made its way to Linux users, particularly those operating on Ubuntu and Linux Mint. Known for its sleek design, speed, and robust security features, Edge is based on the Chromium platform and offers seamless integration with Microsoft’s suite of services. In this guide, we will explore how to install Microsoft Edge step-by-step, ensuring that Linux users can reap the benefits of this versatile browser.

Understanding Microsoft Edge for Linux​

Microsoft Edge was first introduced in 2015 as a replacement for Internet Explorer and has undergone significant evolution since then. With its transition to a Chromium-based architecture, Edge now benefits from faster performance and compatibility with a wide array of websites and applications. The decision to extend Edge's availability to Linux is a strategic move by Microsoft, recognizing the growing number of users migrating to open-source operating systems.

System Requirements​

Before embarking on the installation process, it's crucial to verify that your system meets the following requirements:

• Operating System: Ubuntu 18.04 LTS or later, or Linux Mint 19 or later.
• Internet Connection: An active internet connection is necessary to download the Edge installation package and any required dependencies.
• Administrative Access: You need sudo (superuser) privileges to install software on your Linux distribution.

  Step 1: Download Microsoft Edge​

  1. Access the Microsoft Edge for Linux Page: You can download the installation package by visiting Microsoft's official website dedicated to Edge for Linux. Use any existing browser like Firefox to navigate to the download page.
  2. Choose the .deb Package: For Ubuntu and Linux Mint, you'll need the Debian-based .deb package. Click the download link, and you will need to accept the terms of service to proceed.
  3. Save the Package: Your browser will prompt you to save the file. Opt to keep it in a location that's easy to access later, such as the Downloads folder.

     Step 2: Install Microsoft Edge via Ubuntu Software​

     Once you've downloaded the DEB package, you can install Edge using the graphical interface for ease of use:
  4. Locate the Downloaded File: Navigate to your Downloads directory and double-click the DEB installer.
  5. Open with Ubuntu Software: This action should trigger the Ubuntu Software application to open.
  6. Install the Browser: Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation process. You may be required to enter your password for confirmation.

     Step 3: Install Microsoft Edge through Terminal​

     If you prefer a more efficient approach, you can install Microsoft Edge via the terminal:
  7. Open the Terminal: You can access the terminal by searching for it in your application menu or using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + T.
  8. Navigate to the Download Directory: Use the following command:

     bash cd ~/Downloads

  9. Install the Package: Execute the following command to install the Edge package:

     bash sudo dpkg -i microsoft-edge-stable*.deb

     Here, dpkg is the package manager command, and -i designates the package installation. The * wildcard accommodates version variations in the package filename.
  10. Fix Missing Dependencies (if necessary): If you encounter issues during installation indicating missing dependencies, you can resolve them with:

      bash sudo apt-get install -f

      Additional Notes and Troubleshooting​

      After successfully installing Microsoft Edge, you may want to familiarize yourself with a few troubleshooting tips:
  []Handling Installation Failures: If the installation fails primarily due to missing dependencies, running sudo apt-get install -f typically resolves the issue by automatically obtaining and installing the required packages. []Edge Crashing or Not Starting: In the event that Microsoft Edge does not start or crashes on launch, consider reinstalling the application. It’s also advisable to inspect for any conflicting software or extensions capable of causing these disruptions. []Performance Issues: Should you find that Edge is running slowly, actions such as clearing the browser cache, disabling unnecessary extensions, or resetting the browser to its default settings may help enhance performance.

  Conclusion​

  Installing Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu or Linux Mint not only allows users to enjoy the browser's sleek performance but also brings various features that make browsing the web a smoother experience. With the seamless integration of Microsoft services and an intuitive UI, Edge is now a powerful option for Linux users who appreciate responsiveness and design. For more detailed instructions and visual aids, you can always refer back to Microsoft’s official installation guide or community blogs.

  Recap of Key Points​

  []Microsoft Edge is available for Linux users, specifically on Ubuntu and Linux Mint systems. []Users can install Edge through both a graphical interface and terminal commands. []Ensure sufficient privileges and resolve dependencies if installation issues arise.
• Troubleshoot common post-installation issues for a better user experience. By following this comprehensive guide, Linux enthusiasts can effectively install and utilize Microsoft Edge, tapping into its robust capabilities while enjoying the flexibility of their operating systems. Source: Techaipost