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Jay Mishra
Jay Mishra

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Manually loading extensions aka Sideloading

Sideloading : - /terms used to describe the process of installing software obtained from a third-party source rather than an official retailer.

In the context of mobile devices, sideloading typically refers to the transfer of apps from web sources that are not vendor-approved

For example, when referring to Android apps, “sideloading” typically means installing an application package in APK format onto an Android device. Such packages are usually downloaded from websites other than the official app store Google Play.

Same goes with the Microsoft edge extension

During the development, you can use the Microsoft Edge browser to run and debug your extensions safely.

By sideloading your extensions locally in your browser, You can run and test your extension without changing any settings.
This helps you test new extensions safely

  1. Directly go to the edge://extensions.
  2. Turn on the developer mode toggle. (in the end of the sidebar).
  3. When installing your extension for the first time, click the Load unpacked button

(The Select the extension directory dialog opens)

  1. Select the directory that contains your extension source files, and then click the Select Folder button. Your extension is installed in your browser. it will look the same as installed from the store. That is how you can manually install extensions to your edge browser

Well that's it you are now a pro extensions developer. Good luck! 😉

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Jay Mishra

Wish you all the very best for your health, coding and career!