If you’re stuck using Chrome on your Chromebook and yearning for that sweet Firefox experience, maybe for privacy, performance, or just to shake things up, you’re in the right place. While ChromeOS doesn’t make it super obvious how to install other browsers, it’s definitely possible. You can easily install browsers like Firefox, Opera, Microsoft Edge, and more using the Google Play Store or the Linux development environment.
So whether you’re a Firefox fan from the early days or you’re just tired of Google knowing your every digital move, we’ll walk you through how to install Firefox on your Chromebook in a few different ways. Let’s dive in.
Use Firefox Android App
The easiest method to install Firefox on a Chromebook is by using the Google Play Store. This works on any Chromebook that supports the Play Store. However, your Chromebook must support the Google Play Store, and it should be enabled first.
Once the Play Store is enabled, you can download and install the Android version of Firefox:
1. Click on the App Launcher icon and open the Google Play Store application.
2. In the search bar, type Firefox and press Enter. From the search results, select Firefox.
3. Click the Install button and wait for the installation to complete.
4. Once it’s done, click Open, or find it in your App Launcher.
After that, you’re ready to use Firefox. However, keep in mind that this is the Android version of the app, so you’ll get a mobile-like experience. If you prefer a full desktop-like experience on your Chromebook, you can follow the next method.
Install Firefox on Chromebook via Linux
If you want the real, full-fat desktop version of Firefox with all the bells and whistles, we’ll need to take the Linux route.
First, though, you’ll need to enable the Linux Development Environment on your Chromebook. Don’t worry, we’ve already got a detailed guide on how to do that, just follow the link. Once that’s set up, you’re ready to install Firefox.
Now, let’s dive into the steps for installing the full desktop version of Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) through the Linux Development Environment on your Chromebook.
Note: Why Firefox ESR? It’s a more stable version of Firefox with fewer updates, great for schools, enterprises, and anyone who values reliability.
1. Open the App Launcher, search for the Terminal app, and open it.
2. Once the terminal opens, click the Penguin icon to access the Linux terminal. Start by updating your Linux packages. To do this, type the following command and hit Enter. Wait for the process to complete:
sudo apt update3. Next, you’ll need to upgrade your packages. Run the command below. If you’re prompted with ‘Do you want to continue?’, simply type y and press Enter:
sudo apt upgrade
4. Now, let’s install Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release). For that, run the below command:
sudo apt-get install firefox-esr -y
5. Once the installation is finished, close the terminal.
6. Open the App Launcher, then go to the Linux apps folder. You’ll find Firefox ESR listed there, click to open it and enjoy.
You’ll get the familiar Firefox welcome screen. If you want to import data from another browser, feel free. If not, uncheck the option and click Save and Continue, or just skip it entirely. Finally, hit Start Browsing, and you’re good to go.
