Microsoft Edge as a Linux alternative to Mozilla Firefox
Updated
Our verdict
Microsoft Edge is a solid replacement for Mozilla Firefox on Linux for users who value a Chromium‑based engine, integrated Microsoft services, and built‑in tracking protection. It delivers fast rendering, Chrome extension support, and cross‑device sync via a Microsoft account. Those who rely heavily on Firefox‑specific add‑ons or prefer an open‑source browser may find Edge less suitable, but for everyday browsing, privacy controls, and productivity features Edge meets most needs.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 156.0.4314.42-1 (October 22, 2026)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Chromium‑based rendering engine
- Extension support via Chrome Web Store
- Cross‑device sync of tabs, history, and settings
- InPrivate browsing mode
- Tracking prevention and ad blocking
What is different
- No native Firefox add‑on ecosystem; some extensions may not work
- No Firefox‑specific features like Pocket integration or Firefox Focus
- Edge uses Microsoft account for sync instead of Firefox Sync
- No built‑in support for Firefox‑specific bookmarks or password format
- Edge is proprietary, not open source
Opening your Mozilla Firefox files
Edge can import bookmarks, passwords, and history from Firefox using the built‑in import wizard. Exporting from Edge to Firefox is also supported via the same wizard. If you use Firefox‑specific profile files (e.g., extensions packaged for Firefox), Edge cannot open them directly.
Switching from Mozilla Firefox to Microsoft Edge, step by step
- Open Edge and go to Settings > Profiles > Import bookmarks, passwords, and history
- Choose Firefox as the source and follow the prompts
- Verify that bookmarks and passwords appear in Edge
- Install any desired Chrome extensions from the Chrome Web Store
- Adjust privacy settings in Edge to match your preferences
- Close Firefox to avoid sync conflicts
Key features of Microsoft Edge
- Chromium‑based engine with fast rendering
- Built‑in tracking prevention and AdBlock Plus
- InPrivate browsing and search
- Sync across devices via Microsoft account
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen protection
- Extension support from Chrome Web Store
- Integrated Bing search bar
- Edge DevTools for debugging
How to install Microsoft Edge on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.microsoft.EdgeFrequently asked questions
Does Edge support Firefox extensions?
No, Edge only supports extensions from the Chrome Web Store; Firefox‑specific add‑ons will not work.
Will my Firefox bookmarks sync to Edge?
Yes, you can import bookmarks during setup or later via Settings > Profiles > Import.
Is Edge open source?
No, Edge is proprietary software distributed under Microsoft’s license.