How to Open an Incognito or Private Browsing Window

Using a private or incognito window can help troubleshoot browser issues or ensure your browsing session doesn’t interfere with saved logins and cache. Here's how to open a private window in the most common browsers:

Google Chrome

Windows/Linux/macOS

1. Open Chrome.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Select New Incognito Window.
4. A new window will open with a dark theme and a message confirming you're in Incognito Mode.

Shortcut:

• Windows/Linux: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mac: ⌘ + Shift + N

Mozilla Firefox

Windows/macOS/Linux

1. Open Firefox.
2. Click the three-line menu in the top-right corner.
3. Choose New Private Window.

Shortcut:

• Windows/Linux: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Mac: ⌘ + Shift + P

Microsoft Edge

Windows/macOS

1. Open Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Select New InPrivate window.

Shortcut:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mac: ⌘ + Shift + N

Safari

macOS only

1. Open Safari.
2. In the menu bar, click File.
3. Select New Private Window.

Shortcut: ⌘ + Shift + N

Apple iOS (Safari or Chrome)

1. Open the browser app.
2. Tap the tabs icon (usually two overlapping squares).
3. Tap Private or Incognito in the corner.
4. Tap + to open a new private tab.

Android (Chrome)

1. Open Chrome.
2. Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Select New Incognito Tab.

Note: While private or incognito mode doesn't save your browsing history or cookies locally, it does not make you anonymous online. Your internet provider, employer, or the websites you visit may still track your activity.