How to Install the Yandex Browser on Your Chromebook: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re a Chromebook user looking to explore the Yandex web browser, you’re in luck! The Yandex browser is compatible with Linux, and Chrome OS supports Linux applications through its built-in development environment. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the installation process.

Enabling Linux on Chrome OS

To begin using the Yandex browser, you’ll first need to enable Linux (Crostini) on your Chromebook. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access Settings: Click on the clock in the bottom-right corner of your screen to open the system menu. Then click on the gear icon to access the Settings.

2. Navigate to Advanced Settings: Scroll down and click on "Advanced" to expand more options.

3. Developer Options: Locate the "Developers" section.

4. Enable Linux: Click on "Linux development environment" and hit the "Turn on" button. Follow the prompts to complete the setup, which will also download a Debian Linux container and the terminal app.

5. Open Terminal: Launch the terminal app (often referred to as "Penguin") to interact with your new Linux environment.

Update the Debian Container

After launching the terminal, run the following commands to update your Linux container:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

This ensures that your Linux installation is up-to-date and ready for new software installations.

Installing the Yandex Browser on Chrome OS

Now that Linux is enabled, you can proceed with the Yandex browser installation. There are two main methods to achieve this: using the official Debian package or employing Flatpak.

Method 1: Installing via DEB Package

1. Open Terminal: Start by opening the "Penguin" terminal on Chrome OS.

2. Install Curl: This will allow you to download files from the command line. Run the following command:

   sudo apt install curl

3. Download the Yandex Key File: Execute the command below to obtain the repository key needed to install the browser:

   curl https://repo.yandex.ru/yandex-browser/YANDEX-BROWSER-KEY.GPG --output YANDEX-BROWSER-KEY.GPG

4. Add the Key: Use the command below to add the key to your system:

   sudo apt-key add YANDEX-BROWSER-KEY.GPG

5. Add Yandex Repository: Incorporate the Yandex software repository by entering:

   sudo add-apt-repository "deb https://repo.yandex.ru/yandex-browser/deb beta main"

6. Update and Install: Refresh your package sources and install the browser:

   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install yandex-browser-stable

For those interested in trying the Beta version, simply replace yandex-browser-stable with yandex-browser-beta in the last command.

Method 2: Installing via Flatpak

Alternatively, you can install Yandex Browser as a Flatpak application which may provide more flexibility with updates.

1. Install Flatpak: In the terminal, first install Flatpak to manage Flatpak applications:

   sudo apt install flatpak

2. Enable Flathub Repository: This repository is crucial as it hosts Yandex Browser:

   flatpak --user remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://dl.flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

3. Install Yandex Browser: Now, you can easily install the Yandex Browser:

   flatpak install flathub ru.yandex.Browser

Keeping Yandex Browser Updated

Regardless of the installation method, keeping your Yandex browser updated is essential. If you opted for the DEB package, simply run the following commands in the terminal to refresh and upgrade:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

For Flatpak users, use:

flatpak update

By following these steps, you’ll have the Yandex Browser installed and running smoothly on your Chromebook. Enjoy exploring the features of Yandex, and make the most of your browsing experience!

Conclusion

Now you know how to install the Yandex web browser on your Chromebook. Whether you choose the DEB package or Flatpak, both methods allow you to enhance your browsing experience with this robust web browser. If you have any questions or run into issues during installation, feel free to refer back to this guide for assistance.