How To Install Brave Browser on Rocky Linux 10

The digital landscape demands robust privacy protection, and Brave Browser has emerged as a leading solution for security-conscious users. This comprehensive guide walks you through multiple installation methods for Brave Browser on Rocky Linux 10, ensuring you can choose the approach that best suits your system configuration and preferences.

Rocky Linux 10 users seeking enhanced browsing privacy, built-in ad blocking, and cryptocurrency rewards will find Brave Browser an excellent choice. The browser’s Chromium foundation ensures compatibility with existing web standards while providing superior privacy features that traditional browsers lack.

This article covers three primary installation methods: official repository installation, Flatpak deployment, and Snap package installation. Each method offers distinct advantages depending on your system setup, security requirements, and maintenance preferences.

Understanding Brave Browser and Rocky Linux 10 Compatibility

What is Brave Browser

Brave Browser revolutionizes web browsing through its privacy-first architecture built on the Chromium engine. This foundation ensures excellent performance while maintaining compatibility with existing web standards and extensions. The browser blocks advertisements and trackers by default, significantly improving page load times and protecting user privacy.

The integrated Brave Rewards system allows users to earn Basic Attention Tokens (BAT) for viewing privacy-respecting ads. This innovative approach creates a sustainable advertising model that benefits both users and content creators. Additionally, Brave includes built-in Tor integration for enhanced anonymity and HTTPS Everywhere for secure connections.

Rocky Linux 10 System Context

Rocky Linux 10 serves as a community-driven, enterprise-grade Linux distribution that maintains binary compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. The distribution utilizes the DNF package manager for software installation and management, providing robust dependency resolution and security features.

The system’s repository architecture supports multiple installation methods, including traditional RPM packages, Flatpak universal packages, and Snap containers. This flexibility allows users to choose installation methods based on their specific requirements and system configurations.

Rocky Linux 10 supports both x86_64 and ARM64 architectures, ensuring Brave Browser compatibility across different hardware platforms. The distribution’s stability and security focus make it an ideal platform for privacy-conscious browsing.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

System Requirements

Before installing Brave Browser, ensure your Rocky Linux 10 system meets the minimum hardware specifications. The browser requires at least 2GB of RAM for optimal performance, though 4GB or more is recommended for heavy browsing sessions with multiple tabs.

Your system must be running on a 64-bit architecture, as Brave Browser no longer supports 32-bit systems. Both AMD64 and ARM64 architectures are fully supported, making the browser compatible with modern desktop systems and ARM-based devices.

Allocate at least 500MB of free disk space for the browser installation and additional space for user profiles and cache data. The actual storage requirements may vary depending on your browsing habits and the number of extensions installed.

Required Packages and Dependencies

The installation process requires several essential packages to ensure successful repository configuration and package management. The dnf-plugins-core package provides essential functionality for managing software repositories and must be installed before adding third-party repositories.

The curl utility is necessary for downloading GPG keys and repository configurations from remote servers. Most Rocky Linux 10 installations include curl by default, but verify its presence before proceeding with the installation.

GPG verification tools ensure the authenticity and integrity of downloaded packages. These tools are typically included in the base system installation but may require updates to maintain current security standards.

User Permissions and Sudo Access

Administrative privileges are essential for installing system-wide software packages and modifying system configuration files. Verify that your user account has sudo access by running sudo -v and entering your password when prompted.

The installation process requires adding new software repositories to your system, which involves modifying system configuration files. This operation requires root privileges for security reasons and ensures proper system integration.

Consider the security implications of adding third-party repositories to your system. Only add repositories from trusted sources and verify GPG keys to maintain system security and integrity.

Method 1: Official Repository Installation (Recommended)

System Update and Preparation

Begin the installation process by updating your Rocky Linux 10 system to ensure all packages are current and security patches are applied. Run the following command to refresh package metadata and update installed packages:

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

This command refreshes the package cache and installs any available updates, ensuring your system has the latest security patches and bug fixes. The refresh flag forces DNF to download fresh package metadata from configured repositories.

Monitor the update process for any error messages or conflicts that might affect the Brave Browser installation. Address any issues before proceeding to maintain system stability and ensure successful installation.

Clear the package cache if you encounter repository-related errors during the update process. Use sudo dnf clean all to remove cached package data and force fresh downloads during subsequent operations.

Installing Required Dependencies

Install the essential dnf-plugins-core package to enable advanced repository management capabilities:

sudo dnf install dnf-plugins-core -y

This package provides the config-manager plugin, which is essential for adding and managing third-party repositories. The plugin ensures proper repository configuration and maintains system security standards.

Verify the successful installation by checking the available DNF plugins:

dnf --plugins

The output should include config-manager among the available plugins, confirming that the installation was successful and the plugin is ready for use.

Importing Brave Browser GPG Key

Security is paramount when installing software from third-party repositories. Import the official Brave Browser GPG key to verify package authenticity and ensure you’re installing legitimate software:

sudo rpm --import https://brave-browser-rpm-release.s3.brave.com/brave-core.asc

This command downloads and imports the Brave Browser GPG key into your system’s RPM keyring. The key verification process ensures that packages downloaded from the Brave repository are authentic and haven’t been tampered with.

Verify the key import by listing installed GPG keys:

rpm -qa gpg-pubkey*

Look for the Brave Browser key in the output to confirm successful import. The key should be listed with a unique identifier that matches the official Brave Browser key.

Adding Brave Browser Repository

Configure your system to use the official Brave Browser repository for installation and future updates:

sudo dnf config-manager --add-repo https://brave-browser-rpm-release.s3.brave.com/brave-browser.repo

This command downloads the repository configuration file and adds it to your system’s repository list. The configuration file contains metadata about available packages and their locations.

Verify the repository addition by listing configured repositories:

dnf repolist

The output should include brave-browser among the enabled repositories, confirming that the repository was successfully added and is ready for use.

Installing Brave Browser

With the repository configured and GPG key imported, install Brave Browser using the DNF package manager:

sudo dnf install brave-browser -y

The installation process downloads the latest stable version of Brave Browser and installs it along with any required dependencies. DNF automatically resolves dependencies and ensures proper package integration.

Monitor the installation output for any error messages or conflicts. The process should complete successfully, creating desktop entries and system integration files for seamless user experience.

Verify the installation by checking the installed package:

dnf list installed brave-browser

The output should display the installed Brave Browser version and installation date, confirming successful installation.

Method 2: Flatpak Installation

Understanding Flatpak Package System

Flatpak offers a modern approach to software distribution that provides enhanced security through application sandboxing. This containerized packaging system isolates applications from the host system, reducing security risks and preventing conflicts between different software versions.

The universal package format ensures compatibility across different Linux distributions, making Flatpak packages portable and easy to maintain. Applications installed via Flatpak receive automatic updates and maintain consistent behavior across different systems.

Security benefits include limited filesystem access, controlled network permissions, and isolated application environments. These features make Flatpak particularly suitable for web browsers, which handle sensitive user data and interact with untrusted web content.

Performance considerations include slightly increased memory usage due to containerization and potential longer startup times compared to native packages. However, these trade-offs are often acceptable for the enhanced security and portability benefits.

Enabling Flatpak on Rocky Linux 10

Install Flatpak support on your Rocky Linux 10 system if it’s not already available:

sudo dnf install flatpak

Add the Flathub repository, which serves as the primary source for Flatpak applications:

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

The --if-not-exists flag prevents errors if the repository is already configured, making the command safe to run multiple times.

Verify the repository addition:

flatpak remotes

The output should include Flathub among the configured remotes, confirming that the repository is available for software installation.

Installing Brave via Flatpak

Install Brave Browser from the Flathub repository using the Flatpak package manager:

flatpak install flathub com.brave.Browser -y

The installation process downloads the Brave Browser Flatpak package and installs it in the user’s Flatpak environment. The package includes all necessary dependencies and runtime components.

Launch the Flatpak version of Brave Browser:

flatpak run com.brave.Browser

Alternatively, use the desktop entry that should appear in your applications menu after installation. The Flatpak version provides the same functionality as the native package while maintaining enhanced security through sandboxing.

Method 3: Snap Installation (Alternative Method)

Snap Package System Overview

Snap packages provide another universal packaging format that offers easy installation and automatic updates. While not as widely adopted as traditional package managers, Snap packages offer convenience and consistent behavior across different Linux distributions.

The containerized nature of Snap packages provides some security benefits, though not as extensive as Flatpak. Applications run in confined environments with controlled access to system resources and user data.

Universal package distribution means developers can create a single package that works across multiple Linux distributions, simplifying maintenance and ensuring consistent user experiences.

Consider Snap installation when other methods are unavailable or when you prefer the automatic update mechanism provided by the Snap ecosystem.

Installing Snap on Rocky Linux 10

Enable the EPEL repository to access Snap packages:

sudo dnf install epel-release

Install the Snap daemon and core components:

sudo dnf install snapd

Enable and start the Snap daemon service:

sudo systemctl enable --now snapd.socket

Create a symbolic link to make Snap commands available in the standard PATH:

sudo ln -s /var/lib/snapd/snap /snap

Installing Brave via Snap

Install Brave Browser from the Snap store:

sudo snap install brave

The installation process downloads the Brave Browser Snap package and installs it with appropriate permissions and system integration.

Launch Brave Browser from the command line:

brave

The Snap version provides full browser functionality while maintaining the containerized security model of the Snap packaging system.

Post-Installation Configuration and Launch

Launching Brave Browser

After successful installation, launch Brave Browser using multiple methods depending on your preferred workflow and system configuration.

Command-line launch provides immediate access and is particularly useful for troubleshooting or scripting:

brave-browser

For GUI-based systems, locate Brave Browser in your applications menu or desktop environment’s application launcher. The browser should appear in the Internet or Web Browsers category.

Create a desktop shortcut for quick access by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Create Launcher” or similar option, depending on your desktop environment.

Initial Browser Configuration

The first launch presents a setup wizard that guides you through essential configuration options. Choose your preferred privacy settings, including ad blocking levels and tracker protection options.

Import bookmarks, passwords, and settings from other browsers using the built-in import tool. Brave Browser supports importing from Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and other popular browsers.

Configure Brave Rewards to start earning BAT tokens for viewing privacy-respecting advertisements. This optional feature provides a unique way to support content creators while maintaining privacy.

Set Brave Browser as your default browser through the system settings or the browser’s preferences menu. This ensures links from other applications open in Brave Browser automatically.

Desktop Integration and Shortcuts

Verify that Brave Browser integrates properly with your desktop environment by checking for menu entries, file associations, and system notifications.

Create custom keyboard shortcuts for frequently used browser functions through your desktop environment’s keyboard settings. Common shortcuts include opening new windows, private browsing mode, and bookmark management.

Configure file associations to ensure web-related files open in Brave Browser by default. This includes HTML files, web archives, and other web content types.

Version Management and Updates

Available Brave Browser Versions

Brave Browser offers multiple release channels to accommodate different user needs and risk tolerances. The stable version provides the most reliable experience with thoroughly tested features and security updates.

Beta versions include newer features and improvements before they reach the stable channel. Install beta versions if you want early access to new functionality and don’t mind occasional instability.

Nightly builds offer the latest development features but may include bugs and instability. These versions are suitable for testing and development purposes but not recommended for daily use.

Managing Updates

The official repository installation method provides automatic updates through the system package manager. Regular system updates ensure you receive the latest security patches and feature improvements.

Manually check for updates using DNF:

sudo dnf update brave-browser

Configure automatic updates by enabling the DNF automatic update service for enhanced security and convenience.

Multiple Version Installation

Install multiple Brave Browser versions simultaneously by using different installation methods or version-specific packages. This approach allows testing new features while maintaining a stable browsing environment.

Use separate user profiles for different browser versions to prevent configuration conflicts and maintain distinct browsing environments.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Installation Failures

Repository connection failures often result from network connectivity issues or firewall restrictions. Verify your internet connection and check firewall settings to ensure access to Brave Browser servers.

GPG key import failures may indicate network issues or incorrect key URLs. Re-download the GPG key and verify its authenticity before importing.

Package conflicts can occur when multiple repositories provide similar packages. Use DNF’s conflict resolution tools to identify and resolve conflicts:

sudo dnf repoquery --conflicts brave-browser

Permission-related errors typically result from insufficient user privileges. Ensure your user account has sudo access and verify that sudo is properly configured.

Launch and Runtime Issues

Browser startup failures often relate to corrupted configuration files or missing dependencies. Reset the browser profile or reinstall the package to resolve these issues.

Performance problems may result from insufficient system resources or conflicting software. Monitor system resource usage and close unnecessary applications to improve performance.

Graphics-related issues can affect browser rendering and video playback. Update graphics drivers and verify hardware acceleration settings in the browser preferences.

Audio and video codec problems may prevent proper media playback. Install additional multimedia codecs through the RPM Fusion repository to resolve codec-related issues.

System Integration Problems

Default browser configuration issues prevent proper system integration. Use the system settings or browser preferences to configure Brave Browser as the default web browser.

File association problems may cause web-related files to open in incorrect applications. Configure file associations through the desktop environment’s file manager or system settings.

Desktop environment compatibility issues can affect menu entries and system notifications. Verify that all required desktop integration packages are installed and up to date.

Uninstallation Guide

Complete Removal Process

Remove Brave Browser using the same method used for installation. For repository installations, use DNF to uninstall the package:

sudo dnf remove brave-browser

Clean up configuration files and user data directories to ensure complete removal:

rm -rf ~/.config/BraveSoftware
rm -rf ~/.cache/BraveSoftware

Remove the Brave Browser repository if no longer needed:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-disabled brave-browser

Alternative Removal Methods

For Flatpak installations, remove the application using the Flatpak command:

flatpak uninstall com.brave.Browser

Remove Snap installations using the Snap package manager:

sudo snap remove brave

Verify complete removal by checking for remaining files and configuration directories. Clean up any residual files to ensure a clean uninstallation.

Security and Best Practices

Security Considerations

Maintain system security by regularly updating Brave Browser and the underlying operating system. Enable automatic updates to ensure timely security patch installation.

Verify the authenticity of downloaded packages by checking GPG signatures and using official repositories whenever possible. Avoid third-party repositories that don’t provide proper security verification.

Monitor browser extensions and permissions to maintain security. Remove unnecessary extensions and regularly review granted permissions.

Performance Optimization

Optimize browser performance by managing system resources effectively. Close unnecessary tabs and applications to free up memory and processing power.

Configure browser settings for optimal performance, including hardware acceleration, content blocking, and cache management.

Regular maintenance tasks include clearing browser cache, updating extensions, and checking for malware or unwanted software.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Brave. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the Brave web browser on your Rocky Linux 10 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official Brave website.