How to Install Microsoft Edge on Fedora Linux

Microsoft Edge is a popular and widely used web browser that provides users with a fast, secure, and streamlined browsing experience. With its modern design, intuitive interface, and powerful features, Microsoft Edge is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their browsing to the next level.

The following are some of the key features of Microsoft Edge on Fedora:

• Fast and efficient engine: Microsoft Edge provides a fast and responsive browsing experience that makes it easy to work quickly and efficiently online.
• Built-in security features: With SmartScreen, and tracking prevention, Microsoft Edge provides a secure and safe browsing experience, protecting you from online threats.
• Intuitive interface: The modern and intuitive interface of Microsoft Edge makes it easy to navigate and find the information you need, whether you’re browsing the web, shopping online, or working on a project.
• Microsoft Edge Add-ons: With Microsoft Edge Add-ons, you can customize your browser and add new features and functionality, making it even more powerful and versatile.
• Microsoft Edge Collections: Microsoft Edge Collections allows you to save, organize, and share information from the web, making it easy to keep track of important information and collaborate with others.

This guide will walk you through installing Microsoft Edge on Fedora Linux using the command line terminal and the official Microsoft RPM for the Edge browser. Whether you want to install the latest stable version or try out alternative beta or developer builds, this guide will show you how to get started with Microsoft Edge on Fedora Linux.

Step 1: Update Fedora

Before proceeding, it is recommended that you update all existing packages on your system to avoid potential conflicts.

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

Step 2: Import Microsoft Repository

Before installing Microsoft Edge on Fedora Linux, it is necessary to import the GPG key for the RPM Import. This key is used to verify the authenticity and integrity of the packages you download, ensuring that they are safe and secure to use on your system. To import the GPG key, you can run the following terminal command:

sudo rpm --import https://packages.microsoft.com/keys/microsoft.asc

This command will download and import the Microsoft GPG key, which is used to sign the RPM packages for Microsoft Edge. By importing this key, you can be sure that the packages you download are authentic and have not been tampered with. This is an important step in ensuring the security of your system and the integrity of the software you install.

Next, add the repo Microsoft RPM repository with the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --add-repo https://packages.microsoft.com/yumrepos/edge

Example output:

Adding repo from: https://packages.microsoft.com/yumrepos/edge

Step 2: Install Microsoft Edge Browser

As previously outlined in this guide, users have the option to install one of three versions of the browser. For most typical users, it is recommended to install the stable build, which offers a reliable and well-tested experience. Users who prefer to work with the latest features may opt for the beta version. However, it should be noted that this version may be less stable and more prone to issues. Lastly, the development version is geared towards users who are comfortable with utilizing cutting-edge software and are prepared to manage any potential complications that may arise. It is important to consider these distinctions before selecting a version of the browser to install.

To install the Microsoft Edge browser, it is recommended to use the stable version which has undergone rigorous testing and is considered to be the most reliable option. You can install this version by executing the following command:

sudo dnf install microsoft-edge-stable

You can determine the version and build of the Microsoft Edge browser currently installed on your operating system by executing the following command:

microsoft-edge -version

In the event that you have downloaded the relevant repositories, it is possible to install either the beta or dev (nightly) build of the Microsoft Edge browser. It is important to note, however, that these versions are intended for preview purposes and are not recommended for regular or daily use. They may be of interest to those who are interested in testing the latest features or advancements.

To install the Microsoft Edge Beta or Developer browsers, you may utilize either or both of the following commands:

sudo dnf install microsoft-edge-beta

sudo dnf install microsoft-edge-dev

It is important to note that the installation of the Microsoft Edge Beta or Developer browsers will not replace your current stable version of the browser. Rather, they will be installed as separate and distinct versions.

Similar to the process for the stable version, it is also possible to check the installation and version of the Microsoft Edge Beta and Developer browsers by executing the following commands:

microsoft-edge-beta --version

microsoft-edge-dev --version

Step 3: Launch Microsoft Edge Browser

To launch the Microsoft Edge browser, you can use the appropriate command in your console/terminal:

microsoft-edge

In the event that you have installed the Microsoft Edge Beta or Developer browser versions, you should use the appropriate command to launch the specific version you wish to use, as follows:

microsoft-edge-beta

microsoft-edge-dev

It is possible that many users may not regularly utilize a command-line interface or have a terminal open. For those users, locating the Microsoft Edge application icon may be preferable. One such example path for locating the icon is outlined below:

Activities > Show Applications > Microsoft Edge (version).

Example:

Upon launching Microsoft Edge for the first time, you will be presented with the following welcome screen.

Example:

You may choose to disable or leave the Microsoft improvement tracking by unchecking the relevant box, and subsequently clicking the “OK” button to proceed.

Following this, you will be presented with three options, namely: “Inspiration,” “Informational,” and “Focused.” Upon selecting each tab, you will be able to preview what the corresponding background will look like in your Edge browser.

Once you have selected your desired background option, click the “confirm” button to proceed.

Example:

Finally, you will have the option to sign in and enable synchronization across multiple devices.

If this feature is not required, you may simply click “Continue without signing in.” This is typically accomplished by clicking the “X” located in the top right-hand corner of the pop-up window.

Congratulations, you have successfully configured the Microsoft Edge browser and are now ready to begin utilizing its features and functionalities. As you begin your journey with the Edge browser, it may be helpful to consider the following tips, customizations, and extras that can further enhance your browsing experience.

• Tips for First-time Users:
  • The homepage is fully customizable to allow you to access frequently visited sites easily.
  • You can import bookmarks and passwords from other browsers to make the transition smoother.
  • The browser comes with pre-installed extensions that can be activated or deactivated based on your preferences.
  • Use the built-in dark mode feature to reduce eye strain in low light environments.
• Customizations:
  • Customize the new tab page to suit your preferences, and choose the types of news or weather to be displayed.
  • Use Collections to organize and save webpages, images, and notes for easy access.
• Extras:
  • Use the built-in Translator to translate pages in foreign languages.
  • Utilize the Immersive Reader for a clean, distraction-free reading experience.
  • Enable Picture-in-Picture mode to watch videos in a separate, adjustable window while browsing other pages.

With these tips, customizations, and extras, you can fully personalize and enhance your browsing experience with the Microsoft Edge browser.

Example:

And that is it; you have installed Microsoft Edge Browser on your Fedora Workstation.

Additional Commands & Tips

Remove Microsoft Edge Browser

Removing the browser from your system is straightforward; run the following command to remove the Edge browser from the build you installed.

sudo dnf remove microsoft-edge

sudo dnf remove microsoft-edge-beta

sudo dnf remove microsoft-edge-stable-dev

When you are finished with the Microsoft Edge browser and no longer require its use, removing the associated repositories is recommended. However, should you reinstall the browser later, you can re-import the repositories and follow the same installation steps. This method is considered the most reliable and safe for installing Microsoft Edge on Fedora.

sudo rm /etc/yum.repos.d/brave-browser-rpm-beta.s3.brave.com_x86_64_.repo             
sudo rm /etc/yum.repos.d/brave-browser-rpm-nightly.s3.brave.com_x86_64_.repo
sudo rm /etc/yum.repos.d/brave-browser-rpm-release.s3.brave.com_x86_64_.repo

It’s essential to remember that executing the earlier command will remove all three versions of the Microsoft Edge repositories from your system. In the event that you only intend to remove the beta or nightly version while keeping the stable version, you will need to modify the command accordingly. Failing to do so may lead to the stable version not receiving any necessary updates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing and configuring the Microsoft Edge browser on Fedora can be a simple and straightforward process, requiring only a few steps. Following the recommended commands and options outlined in this guide, users can quickly install and configure the browser to their desired specifications. With the added tips, customizations, and extras outlined, users, can further tailor their browsing experience to their individual needs and preferences.

FAQs on Microsoft Edge with Fedora