Using Incognito/InPrivate Modes in Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge

Incognito Mode in Google Chrome and InPrivate Mode in Microsoft Edge are browser features that enhance privacy by not saving browsing history, cookies, and site data.

Why use private browsing modes?

• Privacy Protection: Prevents saving of browsing history, cookies, and form data.

• Testing: Useful to test websites without cached data.

• Multiple Sessions: Enables simultaneous logins to multiple accounts on the same service.

• Security: Reduces traceable footprint on shared or public devices.

By temporarily disabling specific persistence mechanisms, these modes help ensure a layer of privacy during any browsing session. Note, however, that they do not make users anonymous on the internet and do not protect against tracking by entities like ISPs or websites. Use Incognito/InPrivate modes to navigate with an extra cushion of privacy while understanding their limitations.

How to Use Incognito Mode in Google Chrome

• Open Google Chrome: Launch the browser.

• Start Incognito Mode using one of the two methods:

  1. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner. Select New Incognito Window.

  2. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut:

     1. Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N

     2. Mac: Cmd + Shift + N

How to Use InPrivate Mode in Microsoft Edge

• Open Microsoft Edge: Start the browser.

• Activate InPrivate Mode using one of the two methods:

  1. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner. Choose New InPrivate Window.

  2. Use the shortcut:

     • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + P

     • Mac: Cmd + Shift + P