Microsoft Edge provides a Chromium-based browser optimized for Microsoft 365 integration, with seamless sync across Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux devices. Common use cases include accessing Microsoft Teams directly from the browser sidebar, syncing passwords and bookmarks with Edge on other platforms, and testing web applications against Chromium rendering. By the end of this guide, you will have Microsoft Edge installed with automatic updates, understand the differences between stable, beta, and dev release channels, and know how to cleanly remove the browser if needed. If you’re exploring Chromium-based browsers, Ubuntu also supports alternatives like Chromium, Google Chrome, Brave, and Vivaldi.
Choose Your Installation Method
Ubuntu offers two ways to add the Microsoft Edge repository. The extrepo method automates GPG key and repository setup with a single command, while the manual method gives you direct control over file locations and configuration.
| Method | Setup Complexity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Extrepo | Single command | Quick setup with minimal configuration |
| Manual Repository | Multiple steps | Full control over keyring and sources file locations |
For most users, the extrepo method is recommended because it handles the GPG key import and repository configuration automatically. The manual method remains useful if you prefer explicit control or need to troubleshoot repository issues.
The Microsoft Edge repository uses a universal package format that works on all current Ubuntu releases, including 22.04 LTS, 24.04 LTS, 26.04 LTS, and supported interim releases. Commands shown in this guide work identically regardless of your specific Ubuntu version.
Install Microsoft Edge with Extrepo (Recommended)
Extrepo is a tool that manages external repositories from a curated database. It simplifies adding third-party repositories by handling GPG keys and source file creation automatically. This method requires fewer commands and reduces the chance of configuration errors.
Install Extrepo
First, install the extrepo package from Ubuntu’s Universe repository:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install extrepo -yEnable the Non-Free Policy
Microsoft Edge is classified as non-free software because it contains proprietary components. By default, extrepo only enables repositories marked as “main” (DFSG-free). To access the Edge repository, you must enable the non-free policy in extrepo’s configuration file:
sudo sed -i 's/^# - non-free$/- non-free/' /etc/extrepo/config.yamlThis command uncomments the non-free line in the configuration file, allowing extrepo to access repositories containing proprietary software.
Enable the Microsoft Edge Repository
With the non-free policy enabled, add the Microsoft Edge repository to your system:
sudo extrepo enable edgeThis command downloads Microsoft’s GPG key to /var/lib/extrepo/keys/edge.asc and creates a DEB822 sources file at /etc/apt/sources.list.d/extrepo_edge.sources. You can verify the repository was added successfully:
cat /etc/apt/sources.list.d/extrepo_edge.sourcesThe output shows the repository configuration:
Types: deb Suites: stable Components: main Uris: https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/edge Architectures: amd64 Signed-By: /var/lib/extrepo/keys/edge.asc
Install Microsoft Edge
After enabling the repository, refresh your package list and install Microsoft Edge:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install microsoft-edge-stable -yOnce installation completes, verify the installed version:
microsoft-edge --versionMicrosoft Edge 143.x.x
You can now skip ahead to the “Install Additional Microsoft Edge Versions” section if you want beta or dev channels, or continue to “Launching Microsoft Edge” to start using the browser.
Install Microsoft Edge with Manual Repository Setup
If you prefer direct control over the repository configuration, this method lets you manually import the GPG key and create the sources file. This approach is useful when troubleshooting repository issues or when you want the files in specific locations.
Update Your System
Before proceeding with the installation, update your system to ensure all packages are current:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeInstall Required Packages
Install the tools needed for secure downloads and GPG key management:
sudo apt install curl ca-certificates gnupg -yThis installs curl for downloading the GPG key, ca-certificates for HTTPS verification, and gnupg for key conversion.
Download and Add the GPG Key
Import Microsoft’s GPG signing key to verify package authenticity:
curl -fsSL https://packages.microsoft.com/keys/microsoft.asc | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/microsoft-edge.gpgThis command downloads the ASCII-armored key from Microsoft, converts it to binary format using gpg --dearmor, and writes it directly to the keyrings directory. The -o flag writes the output to the specified file with proper ownership.
Add the Repository
Create a DEB822 sources file that points to the Microsoft Edge repository:
sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/microsoft-edge.sources > /dev/null << 'EOF'
Types: deb
URIs: https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/edge
Suites: stable
Components: main
Signed-By: /usr/share/keyrings/microsoft-edge.gpg
Architectures: amd64
EOFThis creates a dedicated microsoft-edge.sources file in the modern DEB822 format. The Signed-By field links the repository to the GPG key you imported, ensuring APT only accepts packages signed by Microsoft.
Refresh Package List and Verify
Update your package cache to include the newly added repository:
sudo apt updateNext, verify that APT can access Microsoft Edge packages:
apt-cache policy microsoft-edge-stableThe output confirms the repository is working correctly:
microsoft-edge-stable:
Installed: (none)
Candidate: 143.x.x-1
Version table:
143.x.x-1 500
500 https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/edge stable/main amd64 Packages
Install Microsoft Edge
Install the stable version of Microsoft Edge:
sudo apt install microsoft-edge-stable -yAfter installation, verify the browser is working:
microsoft-edge --versionMicrosoft Edge 143.x.x
Remove Duplicate Repository File
Microsoft Edge creates a legacy .list file during installation, even when you have already configured a .sources file. This causes duplicate source warnings every time you run apt update. Remove the duplicate file to prevent these warnings:
sudo rm -f /etc/apt/sources.list.d/microsoft-edge.listThis is a one-time fix. The file will not be recreated during future updates because the package only generates it on first install. Verify the duplicate is gone by running:
sudo apt updateThe output should complete without duplicate source warnings.
Install Additional Microsoft Edge Versions
Whether you used the extrepo method or manual repository setup, you can install additional release channels beyond the stable version. Microsoft Edge offers three channels with different update frequencies and stability levels.
| Factor | Stable | Beta | Dev |
|---|---|---|---|
| Updates | Monthly security + features | Weekly feature previews | Daily experimental builds |
| Stability | Production-ready | Generally stable, some bugs | Unstable, frequent issues |
| Use Case | Everyday browsing | Testing upcoming features | Development and feedback |
| Package Name | microsoft-edge-stable | microsoft-edge-beta | microsoft-edge-dev |
| Command | microsoft-edge | microsoft-edge-beta | microsoft-edge-dev |
All three versions can run simultaneously because they install with separate launcher icons and maintain independent profiles.
Install the Stable Version
If you followed either installation method above, the stable version is already installed. This command is included for reference if you need to reinstall or add it later:
sudo apt install microsoft-edge-stableAfter the installation is complete, verify the installed version of Microsoft Edge with the following command:
microsoft-edge --versionThe output confirms the installation was successful:
Microsoft Edge 143.x.x
Install the Beta Version
Alternatively, if you want early access to upcoming features, you can install the beta version. However, keep in mind that this version may include experimental features and might be less stable.
Use the following command to install it:
sudo apt install microsoft-edge-betaOnce installed, verify the version of the beta browser with:
microsoft-edge-beta --versionMicrosoft Edge 143.x.x
Install the Dev Version
On the other hand, for advanced users or developers who need access to experimental features, the dev version provides daily updates with the latest changes.
Install the dev version with this command:
sudo apt install microsoft-edge-devAfter the installation, confirm the version of the dev browser by running:
microsoft-edge-dev --versionMicrosoft Edge 143.x.x
Launching Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu
After installing Microsoft Edge, you can launch the browser using either the terminal or the graphical interface, depending on your preference.
Launching from the Terminal
To open Microsoft Edge, use the appropriate command based on the installed version:
- For the stable version:
microsoft-edge- For the beta version:
microsoft-edge-beta- For the dev version:
microsoft-edge-devRunning these commands starts the browser immediately from the terminal. This method is useful if you prefer a command-line workflow or need to troubleshoot launch issues.
Launch from the Graphical Interface
Otherwise, if you prefer to use the graphical interface instead, follow these steps to launch Microsoft Edge:
- Open the Applications menu on your Ubuntu desktop.
- Search for Microsoft Edge in the search bar.
- Click on the Microsoft Edge icon to open the browser.
Once launched, you can optionally sign in with your Microsoft account to sync bookmarks, extensions, and settings across devices. In doing so, this ensures a seamless browsing experience, especially if you use Edge on other platforms.
Post-Installation Configuration
Following the installation, you may want to configure it as your default browser or adjust initial settings.
Set Edge as Default Browser
Ubuntu uses the update-alternatives system to manage default applications. Set Microsoft Edge as your default web browser:
sudo update-alternatives --config x-www-browserWhen executed, the command displays a numbered list of installed browsers. Enter the number corresponding to Microsoft Edge:
There are 3 choices for the alternative x-www-browser (providing /usr/bin/x-www-browser). Selection Path Priority Status ------------------------------------------------------------ * 0 /usr/bin/firefox 40 auto mode 1 /usr/bin/firefox 40 manual mode 2 /usr/bin/microsoft-edge-stable 200 manual mode 3 /usr/bin/google-chrome-stable 200 manual mode Press <enter> to keep the current choice[*], or type selection number: 2
Type 2 (or the appropriate number for your system) and press Enter to set Edge as the default browser.
Initial Browser Setup
Additionally, when you first launch Microsoft Edge, the browser prompts you to complete initial setup:
- Microsoft account sync: Sign in to sync bookmarks, passwords, and settings across devices. This is optional, as Edge works without an account.
- Import data: Transfer bookmarks, passwords, and browsing history from Firefox, Chrome, or other installed browsers.
- Privacy settings: Choose tracking prevention level (Basic, Balanced, or Strict). Balanced is recommended for most users.
- Search engine: Set your preferred default search engine. Edge defaults to Bing but supports Google, DuckDuckGo, and others.
Note that these settings can be changed later through Edge’s Settings menu (edge://settings/).
Update Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu
Moving forward, keeping Microsoft Edge up-to-date is essential for accessing new features, maintaining security, and ensuring optimal performance. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to update Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu, from generic system updates to targeted updates for the browser itself.
Update Ubuntu System Packages
The simplest way to ensure all software on your system, including Microsoft Edge, is up-to-date is by running the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgradesudo apt updaterefreshes the package list to include the latest available versions from all configured repositories.sudo apt upgradeapplies updates to all installed software, including Microsoft Edge, if an update is available.
Importantly, this approach ensures your entire system stays current, minimizing security vulnerabilities and software conflicts.
Update Microsoft Edge Only
Conversely, if you want to update only Microsoft Edge without upgrading other software on your system, refresh your package lists and update the specific version:
sudo apt update- For the stable version:
sudo apt install --only-upgrade microsoft-edge-stable- For the beta version:
sudo apt install --only-upgrade microsoft-edge-beta- For the dev version:
sudo apt install --only-upgrade microsoft-edge-devThese commands explicitly target the installed version of Microsoft Edge, ensuring it is updated while leaving other system packages unchanged. Consequently, this approach is useful when you want to minimize unnecessary upgrades or focus only on critical applications.
Remove Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu
Should you decide to uninstall Microsoft Edge, follow these steps to remove the browser and all its associated data, ensuring a clean system.
Remove Microsoft Edge Package
To uninstall Microsoft Edge, use the appropriate command for the version installed on your system:
- For the stable version:
sudo apt remove microsoft-edge-stable- For the beta version:
sudo apt remove microsoft-edge-beta- For the dev version:
sudo apt remove microsoft-edge-devThese commands will remove the respective version of Microsoft Edge from your system. However, this only removes the application itself, not the associated user data.
Subsequently, after removing Microsoft Edge, clean up orphaned dependencies that are no longer needed:
sudo apt autoremoveThis command removes packages that were automatically installed as dependencies for Microsoft Edge but are no longer required by any installed software.
Remove Microsoft Edge User Data
When uninstalling Microsoft Edge, residual user data such as browsing history, bookmarks, cookies, and cached files may still remain. To completely delete this data:
The following commands permanently delete your Microsoft Edge browsing data, including bookmarks, passwords, and browsing history. Back up any data you want to keep before proceeding.
rm -rf ~/.config/microsoft-edgeSimilarly, if you installed other versions of Microsoft Edge, delete their respective directories:
rm -rf ~/.config/microsoft-edge-beta
rm -rf ~/.config/microsoft-edge-devRemove cached files used by the browser:
rm -rf ~/.cache/microsoft-edge*These commands ensure all user-specific data related to Microsoft Edge is completely removed from your system.
Remove the Microsoft Edge Repository
Finally, remove the repository to prevent your package manager from attempting to access Microsoft Edge packages in the future. The cleanup commands depend on which installation method you used.
If you used the extrepo method:
sudo extrepo disable edgeThis command disables the repository by setting Enabled: no in the sources file. If you want to completely remove the files instead, run:
sudo rm -f /etc/apt/sources.list.d/extrepo_edge.sources
sudo rm -f /var/lib/extrepo/keys/edge.ascIf you used the manual repository method:
sudo rm -f /etc/apt/sources.list.d/microsoft-edge.sources
sudo rm -f /usr/share/keyrings/microsoft-edge.gpgThese steps completely remove Microsoft Edge and its components from your Ubuntu system. To confirm, verify the repository was removed by refreshing the package cache:
sudo apt updateConfirm the Microsoft Edge repository is no longer recognized:
apt-cache policy microsoft-edge-stableThe output should show no repository URLs, confirming complete removal:
microsoft-edge-stable: Installed: (none) Candidate: (none) Version table:
Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Installation Issues
In case you encounter problems installing or running Microsoft Edge, these solutions address the most common issues.
Repository Authentication Failures
If apt update fails with GPG errors about the Microsoft Edge repository, the GPG key may be missing or corrupted:
Err:1 https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/edge stable InRelease The following signatures couldn't be verified because the public key is not available: NO_PUBKEY EB3E94ADBE1229CF
Re-import the Microsoft GPG key to fix authentication:
curl -fsSL https://packages.microsoft.com/keys/microsoft.asc | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/microsoft-edge.gpg
sudo apt updateDependency Installation Errors
If Microsoft Edge installation fails with unmet dependency errors, broken packages in your system may be blocking installation:
The following packages have unmet dependencies: microsoft-edge-stable : Depends: libnss3 (>= 3.26) but it is not installable
To resolve this, fix broken packages before retrying installation:
sudo apt --fix-broken install
sudo apt update
sudo apt install microsoft-edge-stableEdge Won’t Launch After Installation
If Microsoft Edge installs successfully but won’t start, check for missing library dependencies or graphics driver issues:
microsoft-edgeIf the terminal shows library errors, verify all required packages are installed:
sudo apt install --reinstall microsoft-edge-stableAlternatively, for graphics-related crashes, try launching Edge with software rendering:
microsoft-edge --disable-gpuConclusion
Microsoft Edge brings a modern, Chromium-based browsing experience to Ubuntu with strong Microsoft service integration and wide extension support. Whether you used the streamlined extrepo method or configured the repository manually, Edge installs and updates cleanly through APT on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, 24.04 LTS, and 26.04 LTS. You can also switch between stable, beta, and dev builds depending on whether you prioritize stability or early access to new features.
When Edge no longer fits your workflow, you can remove the packages, configuration directories, cache, and repository entries to return your system to a clean state. The troubleshooting section addresses common installation and configuration issues you may encounter. If you’re looking for alternative browsers, consider Ungoogled Chromium for privacy-focused browsing without Google services, or revisit the Chromium-based options mentioned in the introduction.
Useful Links for Installing and Using Microsoft Edge on Ubuntu
- Microsoft Edge Official Website
Learn more about Microsoft Edge, its features, and the latest updates directly from the official site. - Edge Insider Community Forums
Join discussions with other users and developers about Microsoft Edge, including beta and dev versions for Linux. - Microsoft Feedback Portal
Submit feedback or report issues directly to Microsoft to improve the Edge experience on Linux.