How to install the Opera Browser on Deepin 20.2

Introduction

Deepin 20.2 is a linux distribution that stands out for its elegant design and user-friendly interface. With its vibrant desktop environment and rich software repository, it’s a great choice for both new and experienced Linux users. One essential component of any modern operating system is a web browser, and while Deepin comes with its own options, many users prefer to install alternatives like the Opera Browser. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of installing the Opera Browser on Deepin 20.2, providing you with a comprehensive understanding that will ensure a smooth installation.

Why Choose Opera Browser?

Before diving into the installation, let’s take a moment to consider why you might want to choose the Opera Browser. Opera is known for its speed, integrated ad blocker, built-in VPN, and unique features such as a sidebar for quick access to social media and messaging applications. Additionally, it provides a customized experience through various themes and extensions, along with solid support for Chrome extensions due to its Chromium base. All of these features make it an appealing option for users seeking both functionality and aesthetics in their browsing experience.

Preparing Your Deepin 20.2 System

Check for Updates

Before installing any new software, it is essential to ensure that your operating system is up to date. This not only helps avoid installation issues but also enhances system performance and security. To update your system, open the Terminal application and execute the following commands:

bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command updates your package list and upgrades all installed packages to their latest versions.

Install Required Dependencies

Although Deepin includes many common libraries out of the box, it’s a good practice to ensure that you have all necessary dependencies for Opera. Check for essential tools like wget and gnome-keyring. If you don’t have them installed, run:

bash
sudo apt install wget gnome-keyring

Downloading the Opera Browser

Now that the system is updated, it’s time to download the Opera Browser. The following steps will guide you through the process.

Obtain the Opera Browser Installation Package

1. Visit the Opera website: Go to the official Opera website where you can find the latest version of the browser available for Linux.

2. Download the .deb package: You can either click the Download button or use the terminal to fetch the package directly. To download via command line, use:

   bash
   wget https://download3.operacdn.com/download/get/?partner=www&wor=1&os=linux&file=deb&vs=1.0

   Replace the URL with the latest download link found on the official site.

Installing Opera on Deepin 20.2

Once the Opera installation package is downloaded, you can proceed with the installation.

Install the .deb Package

To install the downloaded .deb package, navigate to the directory where it was downloaded, typically the Downloads folder.

bash
cd ~/Downloads
sudo dpkg -i opera-stable_*.deb

If there are any dependency issues during installation, run the following command to fix them:

bash
sudo apt –fix-broken install

This command will resolve any missing dependencies and complete the installation of Opera.

Launching Opera Browser

After the installation is completed, you can start the Opera Browser using one of several methods:

• From the Terminal: Type opera and hit Enter.
• From the Deepin Menu: Click the Deepin Launcher (the circle icon usually located at the bottom left), search for “Opera,” and click on the icon to launch it.

As Opera starts for the first time, you’ll be prompted to set it as your default browser if desired. You can also choose to import bookmarks and settings from another browser.

Customizing Your Opera Experience

Setting Up Ad Blockers and VPN

One of the main advantages of Opera is its built-in features that enhance online safety and browsing speed. To enable the ad-blocker:

1. Open the Opera settings by clicking on the menu icon in the upper right corner.
2. Navigate to “Privacy & Security.”
3. Enable the “Block ads” toggle.

For the built-in VPN:

1. In the same settings menu, find the “VPN” section.
2. Enable the VPN option to secure your browsing activity.

Exploring Extensions

Opera supports a host of extensions to enhance its functionality. You can easily add popular extensions such as:

• Grammarly: For improving writing quality.
• Evernote Web Clipper: For saving web pages.
• Honey: To find coupon codes conveniently.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While installing Opera is typically a straightforward process, you might encounter some common issues.

Installation Failed

If the installation fails, ensure that you have followed all steps correctly, especially the dependency checks. Re-running the fix-broken command usually resolves these issues.

Browser Crashes or Freezes

If Opera appears unresponsive after launching, it may be due to hardware acceleration. You can disable it by navigating to:

1. Settings > Advanced > Browser.
2. Toggle off the “Use hardware acceleration when available.”

Connecting to the VPN

If you encounter issues while connecting to the built-in VPN, ensure that you are not behind a restrictive firewall or that your network allows VPN connections.

Keeping Opera Updated

Regular updates are essential not only for new features but also for security patches. By default, Opera should update automatically. However, to manually check for updates, you can do the following:

1. Open Opera and go to the Menu.
2. Click on “About Opera” to check for updates.

Conclusion

Installing the Opera Browser on Deepin 20.2 is a relatively straightforward process that significantly enhances your browsing experience. With its built-in features such as ad-blocking, free VPN, and an extensive library of extensions, Opera is a powerful alternative to more common web browsers. By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to successfully install and customize Opera to suit your browsing needs in the Deepin environment.

FAQ

1. Can I install Opera on other Linux distributions?

Yes, Opera is available for various Linux distributions. You can download the appropriate package for your specific distribution from the Opera website.

2. Is there a way to sync my bookmarks across devices in Opera?

Absolutely! By creating an Opera account, you can sync your bookmarks, history, and other settings across different devices where Opera is installed.

3. How do I uninstall Opera?

To uninstall Opera, you can use the following command in the terminal:

bash
sudo apt remove opera-stable

4. What are some alternatives to the Opera Browser?

Alternatives to Opera include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, each with unique features and benefits.

5. Does Opera support extensions?

Yes, Opera supports a wide variety of extensions, allowing you to customize your browsing experience beyond the default settings.

Remember, whether you’re using it for work, study, or leisure, the right browser can make a world of difference. Enjoy your browsing with Opera!