🔒 How to Go Incognito in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari

There are many reasons why you might want to browse the internet privately — whether you're researching sensitive topics, using a shared device, or simply prefer not to leave a trail of websites behind. That’s where Incognito Mode (also called Private Browsing) comes in.

This guide shows you how to activate incognito mode in the most popular browsers: Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari. Let’s dive in!

Working and investigating at home in Incognito Mode

🌐 Google Chrome – “Incognito Mode”

What it does: Chrome’s Incognito Mode prevents your browsing history, cookies, and site data from being saved on your device. It does not hide your activity from your internet service provider or the websites you visit.

To open Incognito Mode:

• Windows/Linux:

  1. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.

  2. Select “New Incognito Window.”

  3. Or press Ctrl + Shift + N.

• Mac:

  1. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.

  2. Choose “New Incognito Window.”

  3. Or press ⌘ + Shift + N.

You'll know you're in incognito mode when you see the dark window with a spy-like icon and a message explaining private browsing.

🌀 Microsoft Edge – “InPrivate Browsing”

Edge’s InPrivate mode provides the same privacy basics, which include not saving browsing history, cookies, or form data, and it also features some Microsoft-specific tracking prevention.

To open InPrivate Mode:

• Windows:

  1. Click the three-dot menu (⋯) in the top-right corner.

  2. Select “New InPrivate window.”

  3. Or press Ctrl + Shift + N.

• Mac:

  1. Same steps: Three-dot menu → New InPrivate window.

  2. Or use ⌘ + Shift + N.

A blue "InPrivate" label marks the InPrivate window, reminding you that you're browsing privately.

🦊 Mozilla Firefox – “Private Browsing”

Firefox's Private Browsing feature not only blocks tracking cookies but also prevents the storage of session history. It even has built-in Enhanced Tracking Protection.

To open Private Browsing Mode:

• Windows/Linux:

  1. Click the hamburger menu (☰) in the top-right corner.

  2. Select “New Private Window.”

  3. Or press Ctrl + Shift + P.

• Mac:

  1. Click the menu (☰) in the upper right.

  2. Choose “New Private Window.”

  3. Or press ⌘ + Shift + P.

You’ll see a purple mask icon in the window — that’s a sign you’re in private mode.

🍏 Apple Safari – “Private Browsing”

What it does: Safari’s Private Browsing prevents search history and visited pages from being saved. It also stops websites from tracking you.

To open Private Browsing Mode:

• Mac:

  1. Go to File > New Private Window in the top menu bar.

  2. Or press ⌘ + Shift + N.

• iPhone/iPad:

  1. Open Safari.

  2. Tap the Tabs button (two overlapping squares).

  3. Tap where it says [X] Tabs or Private, then choose Private.

  4. Tap Done.

Safari displays a dark search bar to show you're in Private Browsing mode.

🚨 A Quick Word About Online Privacy

Using incognito or private browsing modes is a beneficial step for protecting your privacy — but it’s not a total cloak. These modes don’t hide your activity from:

• Your internet service provider (ISP)

• Your employer (if you're using a work network)

• The websites you visit

For more privacy, consider using tools like a VPN, a privacy-focused browser like Brave, or secure search engines like DuckDuckGo.

✅ Final Thoughts

Private browsing can be an empowering tool — especially if you’re looking up sensitive information or trying to protect your digital footprint. Knowing how to enter incognito mode quickly on your preferred browser gives you more control over your online activity.

Have questions or want tips on staying safe online? Leave a comment below or explore more of our digital safety posts!