Web Browsers: Open an Incognito or Private Browsing Window

Learn how to open an Incognito or Private browsing window in Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari to troubleshoot website issues using a clean browsing session.

Overview

Private browsing allows you to access websites without using existing cookies, cached files, or browsing history. Opening a private browsing window is a common troubleshooting step when websites are not loading correctly or you need to test a website in a clean browser session.

Key Information

• Private browsing does not save your browsing history, cookies, or site data after the window is closed.
• Existing browser extensions may still run unless they are disabled.
• Downloads and bookmarks created during a private browsing session are saved.
• Some organizations may disable private browsing on managed devices.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, you'll need:

• Access to a supported web browser:
  • Microsoft Edge
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Safari
• A Windows, macOS, iPhone, iPad, or Android device
• An internet connection
• Permission to use private browsing if using a managed school or work device

Instructions

Microsoft Edge - InPrivate Window

1.  Open Edge.
2. Click the three dots (...) in the top-right corner.
3. Click New InPrivate Window.
4. Verify that an InPrivate window opens.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

Keyboard Shortcuts:

• 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. Click New Incognito Window.
4. Verify that an InPrivate window opens.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mac: Command + Shift + N

Mozilla Firefox - Private Window

1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the three lines (☰) in the top-right corner.
3. Click New Private Window.
4. Verify that an InPrivate window opens.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Mac: Command + Shift + P

Safari - Private Browsing Window

For macOS:

1. Open Safari.
2. Click File, on the top left of your screen.
3. Click New Private Window.
4. Verify that an InPrivate window opens.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

Keyboard Shortcut:

• Mac: Command + Shift + N

For iOS (iPhone/iPad):

1. Open the Safari app.
2. Tap the ..., in the lower right-hand corner.
3. Tap New Private Tab.
4. Verify that an InPrivate window opens.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

Troubleshooting

I don't see the option to open a private browsing window

Try the following:

• Verify that you are using a supported browser.
• Check whether private browsing has been disabled by your organization.
• Restart your browser and try again.

The website still doesn't work in a private browsing window

Try the following:

• Verify that you have an internet connection.
• Try a different browser.
• Clear your browser cache and cookies.
• Contact the appropriate support team if the problem continues.

Need Additional Assistance?

If you're still experiencing issues after testing in a private browsing window, contact the appropriate support team and let them know you've already tested the issue using Incognito or Private Browsing.