“Private” or “Incognito” mode is a browser setting that lets you browse the internet without saving your browsing history, cookies, or form data. It’s helpful when using a shared or public device, or just when you want a little extra privacy.
Here’s how to open it on all major browsers:
Google Chrome (Windows & Mac)
What it's called: Incognito Mode
How to open it:
- Keyboard shortcut:
- Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
- Mac: Command + Shift + N
- Or via menu:
- Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner
- Select "New Incognito Window"
Mozilla Firefox (Windows & Mac)
What it's called: Private Browsing
How to open it:
- Keyboard shortcut:
- Windows: Ctrl + Shift + P
- Mac: Command + Shift + P
- Or via menu:
- Click the three lines (☰) in the top-right corner
- Select "New Private Window"
Microsoft Edge
What it's called: InPrivate Browsing
How to open it:
- Keyboard shortcut:
- Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
- Mac: Command + Shift + N
- Or via menu:
- Click the three dots (⋯) in the top-right corner
- Choose "New InPrivate window"
Apple Safari (Mac only)
What it's called: Private Browsing
How to open it:
- Keyboard shortcut: Command + Shift + N
- Or via menu:
- Click "File" in the top menu bar
- Select "New Private Window"
Google Chrome (Mobile - iPhone/Android)
- Open the Chrome app
- Tap the three dots (menu)
- Select "New Incognito tab"
Safari (Mobile - iPhone/iPad)
- Open the Safari app
- Tap the tabs icon (bottom-right)
- Tap "Private" in the bottom-left corner
- Tap "+" to open a new private tab
Samsung Internet (Android)
- Open the Samsung Internet app
- Tap the Tabs icon
- Select "Turn on Secret Mode" (you may need to set a password or fingerprint the first time)
Important!
- You can still bookmark pages in private mode, and they’ll be saved to your regular bookmarks.
- Files you download will still stay on your device, even if you're in private mode.