How to Go Incognito Mode on all browsers

Whether you’re shopping for a gift, researching sensitive topics, or simply don’t want your browsing history recorded, using incognito or private mode can help protect your privacy. Most modern browsers offer this feature—but each one has a slightly different method to enable it.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to go incognito mode on all browsers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and others. We’ll also explain what private browsing does (and doesn’t) protect you from.

What Is Incognito or Private Browsing Mode?

Incognito mode, also called private browsing, is a feature in web browsers that prevents the browser from storing:

• Browsing history
• Cookies and site data
• Form inputs and search queries

However, it’s important to note that private browsing doesn’t make you anonymous online. Your internet service provider, employer, or websites you visit can still track your activity.

How to Go Incognito Mode on All Major Browsers

Google Chrome

Windows/Linux/macOS:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + N (macOS)
• Or, click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner > New Incognito Window

Android/iOS:

• Tap the three-dot menu (Android) or the tabs icon (iOS)
• Select New Incognito Tab

Mozilla Firefox

Windows/macOS/Linux:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + P (macOS)
• Or, click the three-line menu > New Private Window

Mobile:

• Tap the tabs icon > Mask icon or Private Browsing
• Add a new private tab from there

Microsoft Edge

Windows/macOS:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N
• Or, click the three-dot menu > New InPrivate Window

Mobile:

• Tap the tabs icon > Switch to InPrivate > Add a tab

Safari

macOS:

• Press Cmd + Shift + N
• Or, click File > New Private Window

iPhone/iPad:

• Tap the tabs icon > Tap Private
• Tap the plus (+) to open a new private tab

🧭 Opera

Desktop:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N or Cmd + Shift + N
• Or, click the menu > New Private Window

Mobile:

• Tap tabs icon > Switch to Private
• Tap the plus (+) to open a private tab

Brave Browser

Desktop:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + N (macOS)
• Or, click the menu > New Private Window (or with Tor for added privacy)

Mobile:

• Tap the tab switcher > Tap Mask icon
• Tap + to open a private tab

What Incognito Mode Doesn’t Do

While incognito mode helps keep your local browsing private, it doesn’t:

• Hide your IP address
• Encrypt your connection
• Prevent tracking by ISPs or your workplace
• Block ads or trackers (unless you’re using a privacy-focused browser like Brave)

For real anonymity, consider using a VPN or privacy tools in addition to private browsing.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to go incognito mode on all browsers, you can browse more privately and prevent your activity from being stored locally. Whether you’re using a desktop or mobile device, activating private mode is quick, easy, and effective for basic privacy.

For deeper protection, remember: private mode is just the first step. Combine it with smart browsing habits and tools for full online privacy.