Private or incognito browsing creates a temporary browser session that does not store certain types of data after the session ends. When you close the private window, your browser typically deletes browser history, cookies and site data, and form inputs or search entries. Using a private browsing window is a secure best practice when logging into accounts on public or shared computers, such as in labs, libraries, or hotel business center.
In addition, it is a useful tool when testing web applications or viewing sites as a new user, as well as if you're having trouble logging into a website. This helps rule out problems caused by your browser’s stored cache, cookies, or extensions.
Using a private or incognito window will:
- Bypass saved cache and cookies
- Prevent auto-login, letting you test as if you were a new user.
- Run separately from your main session, which is useful if you want to check different accounts.
- Disable most browser extensions, which can help isolate conflicts.
This provides a “clean slate” for each session and prevents local traces of your activity from being saved on the device.
Tip: If the site works in a private window but not in your regular window, the issue is usually with cached data, cookies, or extensions. In that case,
clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
Instructions
Microsoft Edge - InPrivate WIndow
Instructions:
-
Open Edge.
-
Click the three dots (…) in the top-right corner.
-
Select New InPrivate window.
Keyboard Shortcut:
For more information, visit Microsoft's support page.
Google Chrome - Incognito Window
Instructions:
- Open Chrome
- At the top right, select More
New Incognito window.
- A new window opens.
- On the right of the address bar, you’ll find the Incognito icon
.
Keyboard Shortcut:
For more information, visit Google's help center.
Mozilla Firefox - Private Window
Instructions:
-
Open Firefox.
-
Click the three lines (≡) in the top-right corner.
-
Select New Private Window.
-
Enter the website’s address and try logging in.
Keyboard Shortcut:
For more information, visit Mozilla's support page.
Apple Safari - Private Browsing
On macOS (MacBook, iMac, Mac Mini):
-
Open Safari.
-
From the top menu, click File.
-
Select New Private Window.
-
Enter the website and test login.
Keyboard Shortcut:
On iOS (iPhone/iPad):
-
Open the Safari app.
-
Tap the Tabs icon (two overlapping squares in the bottom-right).
-
Tap [X] Tabs or Start Page at the bottom center.
-
Select Private.
-
Tap the + to open a new private tab.
-
Enter the website URL and try logging in.
For more information, visit Apple's support page.
Important Security Limitations
Private browsing improves device-level privacy, but it does not provide complete anonymity or full security protection. You should be aware of the following limitations:
- It does not hide your activity from websites, internet service providers (ISP), or network administrators.
- It does not mask your IP address or encrypt your internet traffic.
- It does not protect against malware, phishing, or malicious websites.
- Downloaded files and bookmarks remain on the device after the session ends.
Private browsing should be used as one layer of protection—not a replacement for secure browsing practices such as using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and secure (HTTPS) websites.