Installing Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu can seem tricky if you’re new to Linux or computers in general. This guide is designed especially for seniors who want a straightforward way to get Microsoft Edge running on their Ubuntu system. We’ll cover each step clearly and explain why it matters so you can browse the web comfortably and securely.
Step 1: Check Your Ubuntu Version
Before installing, it’s important to know which version of Ubuntu you are using. Microsoft Edge supports Ubuntu 18.04, 20.04, and later versions. To check your version, open the Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T and type lsb_release -a, then press Enter. If your version is older than 18.04, you’ll need to upgrade Ubuntu first to ensure compatibility.
Step 2: Download the Microsoft Edge .deb Package
Microsoft Edge is available for Ubuntu as a .deb installation file, which is easy to use. Open your current web browser and go to https://www.microsoft.com/edge. Select the Linux version and choose the .deb installer for Ubuntu. This file contains everything needed to install Edge on your system.
Step 3: Open the Terminal to Install Edge
Using the Terminal makes the installation process straightforward and reliable. After downloading the .deb file (usually saved in your Downloads folder), open the Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T). Navigate to the Downloads folder by typing cd ~/Downloads and pressing Enter. This sets your current folder to where the Edge file is located.
Step 4: Install Microsoft Edge Using dpkg
Now, run the command sudo dpkg -i microsoft-edge-stable*.deb to start the installation. The sudo command means you’re running this as an administrator, so you’ll be asked to enter your password. This command tells Ubuntu to install the Edge package you downloaded. If you see errors about missing dependencies, you can fix them with the next step.
Step 5: Fix Missing Dependencies
Sometimes, Ubuntu needs extra software libraries for new programs. To fix missing dependencies, type sudo apt-get install -f and press Enter. This command will download and install any necessary components Edge needs to run properly. After it finishes, Microsoft Edge should be fully installed and ready to use.
Step 6: Launch Microsoft Edge
After installation, you can start Microsoft Edge by clicking on the Ubuntu “Activities” button at the top left of your screen and typing “Edge” in the search box. Click the Microsoft Edge icon when it appears. Alternatively, open the Terminal and type microsoft-edge to launch the browser. This is your new tool for browsing the internet with Microsoft’s latest features on Ubuntu.
Step 7: Set Microsoft Edge as Your Default Browser
If you prefer to use Edge every time you open a link, setting it as the default browser helps. Go to Ubuntu’s Settings, then click on “Default Applications.” Under the “Web” section, select “Microsoft Edge” from the dropdown list. This way, clicking on links in emails or documents will automatically open in Edge.
Step 8: Enable Automatic Updates for Edge
Keeping Microsoft Edge updated ensures you have the latest security patches and features. When you installed Edge, it added Microsoft’s repository to your system, allowing Ubuntu’s Software Updater to handle Edge updates automatically. Just remember to regularly check for updates by clicking on the gear icon in Ubuntu’s top right menu and selecting “Software Updater.”
Step 9: Customize Edge for Easier Use
Microsoft Edge offers options to make browsing simpler for seniors. You can increase font size by going to Settings > Appearance > Fonts, or enable a reading mode that removes distractions on webpages. You can also add favorite websites to the Edge start page for quick access. These features help make the web more comfortable and accessible.
Step 10: Use Edge’s Security and Privacy Features
Microsoft Edge includes built-in security tools like tracking prevention and password management. To activate these, open Settings > Privacy, search, and services. Enable tracking prevention at the “Balanced” or “Strict” level to reduce unwanted ads and trackers. You can also use the Edge password manager to save your passwords safely, reducing the need to remember multiple logins.
How to Choose
When deciding to install Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu, focus on compatibility, ease of installation, and ongoing support. Microsoft Edge is officially supported on Ubuntu 18.04 and newer, which ensures stability and security updates. The .deb installation package is straightforward for beginners, especially compared to compiling software manually. Also, consider your browsing needs—Edge’s integration with Microsoft services and strong privacy controls make it a solid choice if you use Microsoft accounts or want a familiar interface similar to Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Microsoft Edge free to use on Ubuntu?
Yes, Microsoft Edge is completely free to download and use on Ubuntu and other Linux distributions.
Q: Will Microsoft Edge run well on older Ubuntu versions?
Edge supports Ubuntu 18.04 and later. Older versions may not be compatible or could cause stability problems.
Q: How do I uninstall Microsoft Edge if I don’t like it?
Open the Terminal and type sudo apt remove microsoft-edge-stable. This will remove Edge from your system cleanly.
Q: Can I sync my bookmarks and passwords between Windows and Ubuntu?
Yes, by signing into your Microsoft account in Edge, you can sync bookmarks, passwords, and settings across devices.
Q: Is it safe to install software using Terminal commands?
Yes, as long as you use official sources like Microsoft’s website and trusted commands, installing via Terminal is safe and reliable.
Q: Does Microsoft Edge support browser extensions on Ubuntu?
Yes, Edge supports most Chrome extensions available from the Chrome Web Store, enhancing functionality.
Final Thoughts
Installing Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu may seem intimidating at first, but following these clear steps makes it manageable, especially for seniors new to Linux. Edge offers a familiar browsing experience with solid security and helpful features tailored for ease of use. With this guide, you can confidently set up Edge and enjoy a smooth web experience on your Ubuntu system.
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