Installing Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) on your Chromebook is a straightforward process that gives you access to a stable, long-term supported version of the Firefox browser. This guide will walk you through the installation process using Linux apps (Crostini) on your Chromebook.
What is Firefox ESR?
Firefox ESR is specifically designed for organizations and users who need extended support for mass deployments or prefer a more stable browsing experience. Unlike the regular Firefox release that updates every four weeks with new features, Firefox ESR receives major updates only once a year, with security and stability patches delivered throughout its support cycle. This makes it an excellent choice for Chromebook users who want a reliable, well-tested browser without frequent feature changes that might introduce bugs or compatibility issues.
The Extended Support Release is particularly useful if you rely on specific browser extensions or configurations that you don't want disrupted by frequent updates. It's the same powerful Firefox browser you know, just with a more predictable update schedule.
Video Tutorial
Prerequisites
Before proceeding with the installation, make sure you have:
- A Chromebook with Linux apps (Crostini) enabled
- An active internet connection
- Basic familiarity with the Linux terminal
If you haven't enabled Linux apps on your Chromebook yet, you can do so by going to Settings > Advanced > Developers > Linux development environment and turning it on. Not all Chromebooks support this feature, so check our list of currently supported Chromebooks with Linux Apps (Crostini) support if you're unsure.
Installation Commands
The installation process requires just two simple commands. Follow along with the video tutorial above for a detailed walkthrough, or use the commands below:
Step 1: Update Your Package List
First, we'll update the package list to ensure you're installing the latest version available:
sudo apt updateThis command refreshes your system's package database, ensuring you have access to the most recent versions of available software. It's always a good practice to run this command before installing new packages.
Step 2: Install Firefox ESR
Now we'll install Firefox ESR:
sudo apt install firefox-esrDuring installation, you may be prompted to confirm the download size and proceed with the installation. Simply type 'Y' and press Enter to continue. The installation typically takes just a few minutes depending on your internet connection speed.
After Installation
Once the installation is complete, you'll find Firefox ESR in your Chromebook's app launcher under the Linux apps folder. Simply click the icon to launch the browser. On first launch, you may want to sign in with your Firefox account to sync your bookmarks, passwords, and preferences across devices.
Firefox ESR will automatically receive security updates through your Chromebook's Linux container, keeping your browser secure without manual intervention. You can check for updates at any time by running the update commands again.
Additional Resources
For more information about Firefox ESR and its release cycle, visit:
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any problems during installation, here are some solutions:
- Permission denied errors: Make sure you're using 'sudo' before the commands to run them with administrator privileges.
- Package not found: Run 'sudo apt update' again to refresh your package list, then retry the installation.
- Installation fails: Check your internet connection and ensure you have enough disk space in your Linux container (at least 500MB free).
- Firefox won't launch: Try restarting your Linux container by right-clicking the Terminal app and selecting "Shut down Linux".
If you have any questions or run into issues not covered here, please feel free to contact us via a YouTube comment and we'd be happy to help you troubleshoot!
Have a look at our Chromebook comparison and Buyers Guide for more information on choosing the right Chromebook for your needs.
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