FirefoxLinux
vs
Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode)Windows
Firefox as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode)
Updated
Our verdict
Firefox is a solid replacement for Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode) for most users, especially those prioritizing privacy, open source software, and cross-platform use. While Firefox lacks IE mode and built-in support for outdated internal sites relying on legacy ActiveX or old document modes, it handles modern web standards well. It supports collections via extensions and offers strong customization. It’s ideal for users who don’t depend on Windows-specific enterprise intranet features but want a secure, private, and actively maintained browser on Linux.
- License
- MPL-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 158.0.1 (October 19, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both browsers support tabbed browsing and fast page rendering
- Offer bookmarking and password management
- Allow organizing web content through built-in or add-on tools
- Include private browsing and tracker blocking features
- Support browser extensions for added functionality
What is different
- Firefox does not include an IE compatibility mode for legacy internal sites
- No native support for Microsoft Collections as implemented in Edge
- Lacks integration with Windows-specific enterprise policies
- Does not run ActiveX controls or old document modes
- Uses open web extensions instead of Edge’s proprietary add-on model
Opening your Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode) files
Firefox does not directly open Microsoft Edge Collections files, as the format is proprietary and not exposed for import. Users must manually export bookmarks or links from Edge before switching. Passwords and history cannot be directly migrated to Firefox from Edge on Linux. Third-party tools or browser sync via Microsoft account may help extract some data, but full fidelity is not guaranteed.
Switching from Microsoft Edge (Legacy Collections, IE mode) to Firefox, step by step
- Export bookmarks from Microsoft Edge as an HTML file
- Install Firefox on Linux via your distribution’s package manager or Flathub
- Import the HTML bookmark file into Firefox under Library > Bookmarks > Import
- Install extensions like 'Collections' or 'Simple Tab Groups' for content organization
- Set up Firefox Sync to keep data across devices
- Test access to legacy sites; use a Windows VM or container if IE mode is required
Key features of Firefox
- Fast page loading
- Strong privacy controls
- Customizable UI
- Extensible with add‑ons
- Cross‑platform sync
- Open source
- Regular security updates
How to install Firefox on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.mozilla.firefoxsudo apt install firefoxsudo apt install firefox-esrsudo dnf install firefoxsudo pacman -S firefox-i18n-es-mxsudo zypper install MozillaFirefoxFrequently asked questions
Can Firefox run websites that only work in Internet Explorer?
No, Firefox does not support Internet Explorer's rendering engine or ActiveX. For such sites, use a Windows virtual machine or a dedicated IE-only browser.
Is there a Firefox extension that mimics Edge Collections?
Yes, add-ons like 'Simple Tab Groups' or 'Bookmark Sorter' can organize tabs and links similarly, though not identical to Edge's UI.
Does Firefox sync across Windows and Linux?
Yes, Firefox Sync works across platforms, allowing bookmarks, passwords, and settings to follow you between Windows and Linux machines.
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