Browser: How to Use Incognito/InPrivate Window

If you’re having trouble logging into a website, one of the first steps you can try is opening the website in a private browsing window. This helps rule out problems caused by your browser’s stored cache, cookies, or extensions. Private browsing modes load the website in a clean environment.

Using a private window will:

  • Bypass saved cache and cookies, so you see the most up-to-date version of the site.
  • 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.

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.

How to Open a Private Browsing Window

Microsoft Edge – InPrivate Window

  1. Open Edge.

  2. Click the three dots (…) in the top-right corner.

  3. Select New InPrivate window.

    • A new window opens with a dark theme and InPrivate in the corner.

  4. Go to the website and try logging in.

Keyboard Shortcut:

  • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N

  • Mac: Command + Shift + N

Google Chrome – Incognito Window

  1. Open Chrome.

  2. Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner.

  3. Select New Incognito window.

    • A dark window opens with an Incognito icon in the corner.

  4. Type the website address in the bar and test login.

Keyboard Shortcut:

  • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N

  • Mac: Command + Shift + N

Mozilla Firefox – Private Window

  1. Open Firefox.

  2. Click the three lines (≡) in the top-right corner.

  3. Select New Private Window.

    • A new window opens with Private Browsing in the corner.

  4. Enter the website’s address and try logging in.

Keyboard Shortcut:

  • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + P

  • Mac: Command + Shift + P

Safari – Private Browsing

On macOS (MacBook, iMac, Mac Mini):

  1. Open Safari.

  2. From the top menu, click File.

  3. Select New Private Window.

    • A dark address bar and message will confirm private browsing.

  4. Enter the website and test login.

Keyboard Shortcut:

  • Command + Shift + N

On iOS (iPhone/iPad):

  1. Open the Safari app.

  2. Tap the Tabs icon (two overlapping squares in the bottom-right).

  3. Tap [X] Tabs or Start Page at the bottom center.

  4. Select Private.

  5. Tap the + to open a new private tab.

  6. Enter the website URL and try logging in.

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