If you’re new to Ubuntu and want to use Microsoft Edge as your web browser, this guide is for you. We’ll walk through the essential steps to install Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu, explaining what you need to do and why each step matters. Whether you’re switching from Windows or just exploring different browsers on Linux, this list will help you get started quickly and confidently.
1. Understand Why Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu
Microsoft Edge is built on the Chromium engine, offering fast performance and good compatibility with modern web standards. Installing Edge on Ubuntu lets you sync bookmarks, passwords, and extensions if you use Edge on other devices. It’s especially useful for users who rely on Microsoft services like Office 365 and want seamless integration across platforms.
2. Check Your Ubuntu Version
Before installing Edge, ensure your Ubuntu version is supported. Microsoft officially supports Edge on Ubuntu 18.04 LTS and later. You can check your version by running lsb_release -a in the terminal. Running a supported version ensures compatibility and security updates.
3. Enable 64-bit Architecture
Microsoft Edge for Linux is available only for 64-bit systems. Confirm that your Ubuntu installation is 64-bit by running uname -m. If it returns x86_64, you’re good to go. Edge won’t install or run on 32-bit Ubuntu, so this step is crucial.
4. Download the Official Microsoft Edge .deb Package
Go to the official Microsoft Edge Linux download page at microsoft.com/edge. Choose the Linux .deb package for Ubuntu. This package is optimized for Debian-based distributions and includes all necessary dependencies for installation.
5. Install Required Dependencies
Before installing Edge, update your package list with sudo apt update. You might need certain dependencies like libgtk-3-0 and libxss1, which are usually installed by default but can be added manually with sudo apt install libgtk-3-0 libxss1. These libraries help Edge run smoothly on your system.
6. Install Microsoft Edge Using dpkg
After downloading the .deb file, open the terminal and navigate to the download folder. Run sudo dpkg -i microsoft-edge-stable_current_amd64.deb to install Edge. If you encounter dependency errors, fix them with sudo apt -f install, which will automatically install missing packages.
7. Launch Microsoft Edge and Initial Setup
Once installed, launch Edge from your applications menu or by typing microsoft-edge in the terminal. The first launch prompts you to sign in with a Microsoft account to sync your data or proceed without signing in. This step helps personalize your browsing experience.
8. Enable Automatic Updates via Microsoft Repository
Microsoft adds its repository to your system during installation, enabling automatic updates through Ubuntu’s package manager. You can verify this by checking the file /etc/apt/sources.list.d/microsoft-edge.list. Keeping Edge updated ensures you receive the latest security patches and features.
9. Customize Edge Settings for Ubuntu
Tailor Edge to your preferences by adjusting privacy settings, setting default search engines, and enabling extensions from the Chrome Web Store. Ubuntu users often prefer enabling hardware acceleration for better performance, which can be toggled in Edge’s advanced settings.
10. Troubleshoot Common Installation Issues
Common problems include missing dependencies or conflicts with other browsers. Running sudo apt -f install usually resolves dependency errors. If Edge won’t start, check for missing libraries with ldd /usr/bin/microsoft-edge and install any missing packages. Forums like Ask Ubuntu and Microsoft’s support channels are good resources.
How to Choose
When deciding to install Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu, consider your workflow and ecosystem. If you rely heavily on Microsoft services, Edge’s integration and syncing capabilities make it worth installing. For general browsing, Chromium or Firefox may offer better native Linux support. Also, consider system compatibility; Edge requires 64-bit Ubuntu 18.04 or newer. Finally, evaluate your need for features like built-in tracking prevention, vertical tabs, or Collections, which Edge offers uniquely compared to other browsers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Microsoft Edge free on Ubuntu?
Yes, Microsoft Edge is completely free to download and use on Ubuntu.
Q: Can I install Edge on older Ubuntu versions?
Microsoft officially supports Ubuntu 18.04 and later. Installing on older versions may cause compatibility issues.
Q: Does Edge support extensions on Ubuntu?
Yes, Edge supports extensions from the Chrome Web Store, just like its Windows version.
Q: How do I update Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu?
Edge updates automatically via the Microsoft repository added during installation. Run sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade regularly.
Q: Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge if I don’t like it?
Yes, you can remove it with sudo apt remove microsoft-edge-stable.
Q: Is my browsing data safe on Edge for Ubuntu?
Microsoft Edge includes tracking prevention and privacy controls. However, as a Microsoft product, some data may be sent to Microsoft servers if syncing is enabled.
Final Thoughts
Installing Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu is straightforward once you understand the steps and requirements. It offers a solid browsing experience with seamless integration for Microsoft users and access to a wide range of extensions. By following this guide, beginners can confidently add Edge to their Ubuntu setup and enjoy a familiar yet powerful browser alternative. Remember to keep your system and browser updated to stay secure and benefit from the latest features.
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