How to Install Google Chrome on Fedora 40 or 39

Google Chrome is a top-tier web browser renowned for its speed, security, and expansive extension library. It supports multiple versions, including stable, beta, and unstable (dev) builds, catering to users ranging from general consumers to developers who need early access to new features. The integration with Google services and its frequent updates make Chrome an excellent choice for a secure and efficient browsing experience.

On Fedora 40 or 39, Google Chrome can be installed using different methods. The Fedora-Workstation-Repositories provides the latest stable build, offering an easy and well-integrated installation path for most users. For those who prefer more options, Google’s Official RPM allows installation of not only the stable version but also the beta and dev builds, directly maintained by Google. Additionally, Flatpak via Flathub offers the choice between stable and dev builds in a sandboxed environment, which adds an extra layer of security and system isolation. This guide will detail each method, helping you choose the best approach for installing Google Chrome on Fedora.

Method 1: Install Google Chrome via “fedora-workstation-repositories”

Enable “fedora-workstation-repositories”

To begin, activate Fedora’s third-party repositories using this command:

sudo dnf install fedora-workstation-repositories

This step is crucial for accessing additional software, including Google Chrome, unavailable in the default repositories.

Activate the Google Chrome Repository

After integrating the Fedora Workstation third-party repositories, proceed to enable the Google Chrome repository. Execute the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-enabled google-chrome

This command explicitly targets the Google Chrome repository, making the browser available for installation.

Install Google Chrome Using the DNF Command

With the Google Chrome repository now active, you can install the stable version of Google Chrome. Use this command:

sudo dnf install google-chrome-stable

This method also allows access to the beta and unstable versions of Google Chrome, similar to Google RPM. However, updates may be delayed compared to the Google RPM. You might prefer the Google RPM for the latest features, but this method is suitable for a more stable experience.

To install the beta or unstable versions, use the corresponding commands:

sudo dnf install google-chrome-beta

sudo dnf install google-chrome-unstable

All three versions of Google Chrome (stable, beta, and unstable) can coexist on the same system. They are installed separately and do not interfere with each other.

Method 2: Install Google Chrome via Google RPM

Update Fedora Before Google Chrome Installation

Updating your system to the latest version is essential before installing Google Chrome on your Fedora desktop. This helps to avoid potential conflicts that could arise during the installation process.

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

Import Google Chrome RPM

For your Google Chrome browser installation, you have three options. The first and most recommended option is to install the stable browser branch, which is suitable for most users. However, if you’re a more advanced or curious user, you can also choose to install the beta and unstable builds alongside the stable build.

To begin the installation process, you need to import the GPG key by running the following command in your terminal:

sudo rpm --import https://dl.google.com/linux/linux_signing_key.pub

After importing the GPG key, you can download the three versions of Google Chrome using separate installation IDs for each version. As previously mentioned, the recommended option is to download the stable version:

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/google-chrome-stable_current_x86_64.rpm

If you would like to install the beta or unstable versions, you can also download them using the following commands:

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/google-chrome-beta_current_x86_64.rpm

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/google-chrome-unstable_current_x86_64.rpm

If you experience issues downloading the RPM from Google, it may be because the wget package is not installed on your system. In this case, you can install the package by running the following command:

sudo dnf install wget

Install Google Chrome via DNF Install Command

Now that you have downloaded the Google Chrome RPM files, you can install the stable version of the browser using the DNF package manager. Firstly, ensure you are in the directory where you originally downloaded the .rpm file. You can then execute the following command in your terminal:

sudo dnf install google-chrome-stable_current_x86_64.rpm

This command will install the stable version of Google Chrome on your Fedora desktop.

Alternatively, if you have added the repositories, you can also choose to install the beta or unstable browser builds. These versions are not recommended for everyday use, especially on a main desktop or production environment. However, for those who like to try new things and live on the edge, you can install the beta and unstable versions using the following commands in your terminal:

sudo dnf install google-chrome-beta_current_x86_64.rpm

sudo dnf install google-chrome-unstable_current_x86_64.rpm

Method 3: Install Google Chrome via Flatpak and Flathub

Flatpak is a software utility offering a universal package management system. It aims to ensure applications run seamlessly across diverse Linux distributions. Flatpak minimizes potential conflicts with system libraries by encapsulating applications in isolated environments. Flathub complements Flatpak by acting as a centralized repository for Flatpak applications. It’s a hub that offers many applications, streamlining the installation process for users.

Activating Flathub Repository for Google Chrome

To access the vast array of applications on Flathub, including Google Chrome, you must have the Flathub repository enabled on your Fedora system.

To activate the Flathub repository, execute the following command in your terminal:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

This command integrates the Flathub repository into your Flatpak setup, granting access to various applications.

Note: It’s worth noting that when using Flatpak and Flathub, no beta version of Google Chrome is available. When leveraging this installation approach, users can only opt between the stable and unstable versions.

Install Google Chrome via Flatpak Command

With Flathub now part of your system’s repositories, you can proceed with the Google Chrome installation.

Install Google Chrome stable release build

For most users, the stable release of Google Chrome is the preferred choice. It’s been rigorously tested to ensure reliability and offers a consistent browsing experience. To install this version, input the following command:

flatpak install flathub com.google.Chrome -y

Install Google Chrome dev build

Google Chrome’s Unstable version might appeal to those with a penchant for cutting-edge features who don’t mind occasional hiccups. This version provides a sneak peek into the latest features, albeit with a trade-off in stability. To install the Unstable version, use the command:

flatpak install flathub com.google.ChromeDev

Troubleshooting Tips: Resolving Issues with Flatpak Installation

If you come across an error message stating:

"error: Unable to load summary from remote flathub: Can't fetch summary from disabled remote 'flathub,'"

You can rectify this problem by reactivating the Flathub repository. Use the following command to do so:

flatpak remote-modify --enable flathub

Executing this command, you will re-enable the Flathub repository, which addresses the problem and enables the successful installation of LibreOffice when you re-run the installation command.

Launch Google Chrome via CLI Commands or GUI Path

Once you’ve successfully installed Google Chrome on your Fedora system, it’s time to launch the browser and start exploring its features. Two primary methods to initiate Google Chrome on Fedora are the Command Line Interface (CLI) and the Graphical User Interface (GUI).

CLI Method of Launching Google Chrome

Initiating the Google Chrome Stable Version

To launch the stable version of Google Chrome, input the following command:

google-chrome

If you’ve installed Google Chrome using Flatpak, the command slightly varies:

flatpak run com.google.Chrome

Accessing the Google Chrome Beta Version

For users who’ve opted for the beta version, which offers a glimpse into features that are still under testing, use:

google-chrome-beta

Venturing into the Google Chrome Unstable Version

Adventurous users who’ve chosen the unstable version, which provides the latest features (though they might be prone to bugs), can launch it with:

google-chrome-unstable

Or, if installed via Flatpak:

flatpak run com.google.ChromeDev

GUI Method of Launching Google Chrome

Alternatively, if you prefer to use the graphical user interface (GUI), you can open the application icon by following these steps:

1. Click on “Activities” in the top left corner of your desktop.
2. Select “Show Applications” from the drop-down menu.
3. Look for the Google Chrome application icon and click on it.

Additional Commands for Google Chrome

Update Google Chrome Browser

While Google Chrome browser users will be notified of updates, it is a good practice to run a command-line terminal update check to ensure that the updates are being fetched and installed correctly. You can do this by running the following command:

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

This command will check for updates and install them, ensuring that your browser is up-to-date.

Alternatively, Flatpak installations can use the following command:

flatpak update

The above command will check all Flatpak installations, such as Google Chrome, and prompt you to update your terminal.

Remove Google Chrome

DNF Remove Command for Google Chrome Browser

If you no longer wish to use Google Chrome on your Fedora desktop, you can run one of the following commands, depending on the version you have installed:

sudo dnf remove google-chrome-stable

sudo dnf remove google-chrome-beta

sudo dnf remove google-chrome-unstable

When you no longer need to use the Google Chrome repositories, disabling them to prevent unwanted updates or installations is a good idea. You can do this by running the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-disabled google-chrome*

Note that this command will disable all Google Chrome browser repositories. If you want to disable individual repositories, you can print the repositories you have imported into your terminal using the following command:

dnf repolist | grep chrome

Then disable the specific repository by running the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-disabled <repository-name>

For example, if you want to disable the beta repository, you can run the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-disabled google-chrome-beta

If you want to re-enable the repositories for future installations, you can run the following command:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-enabled google-chrome*

Remember to replace “google-chrome*” with the exact repository name if you have disabled specific repositories.

Flatpak Remove Command for Google Chrome Browser

The uninstallation procedure is slightly distinct if you’ve installed Google Chrome on Fedora using the Flatpak method. For the standard version of Google Chrome, you can use the command:

flatpak uninstall com.google.Chrome

However, if you’ve opted for the developmental or unstable version of Google Chrome, the appropriate command would be:

flatpak uninstall com.google.ChromeDev

By employing these commands, you can adeptly manage Google Chrome on your Fedora system, ensuring you can update or remove the browser as needed.

Conclusion

Whether you opt for the Fedora-Workstation-Repositories, Google’s official RPM, or Flatpak from Flathub, installing Google Chrome on Fedora ensures that you have access to a fast, secure, and fully-featured web browser. Each method provides a pathway tailored to different needs—whether stability, access to the latest features, or enhanced security through isolation. Regular updates through these channels will keep your Chrome installation up-to-date and secure, ensuring a superior browsing experience on Fedora.

Useful Links

Here are some valuable links related to using Google Chrome:

• Google Chrome Community Support: Join the Google Chrome community support forum to ask questions, share solutions, and get help from other Chrome users.
• Chrome Web Store: Visit the Chrome Web Store to explore and download various extensions and themes for Google Chrome.
• Chrome Web Store Extensions: Browse the extensive collection of extensions available on the Chrome Web Store to enhance your browsing experience.
• Chrome Web Store Themes: The Chrome Web Store offers a wide range of themes to customize the appearance of your browser.