Incognito Mode is a private browsing feature found in most web browsers. It lets you surf the internet without saving your browsing history, cookies, or other private data. Many people use it for privacy and security, but there’s more to know.
In this article, you will learn what Incognito Mode is, how it works, when to use it, and what it does not do. We’ll also go over its pros and cons, and how to use it in popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
What Is Incognito Mode?
Incognito Mode is a setting in your browser that gives you a private window for browsing the web. When you’re using Incognito, your browser does not:
- Save your search history
- Keep cookies after the session
- Store form entries or passwords
But it’s important to know: Incognito Mode is not fully private. Your internet service provider (ISP), your school, your employer, or the websites you visit can still track you.
Why Do People Use Incognito Mode?
There are many reasons people choose to browse in Incognito Mode. Here are some common ones:
To Prevent Saving History
If you’re shopping for a gift or looking up something personal, you might not want it saved in your browser history. Incognito helps keep that information private.
To Use Multiple Accounts
Let’s say you’re logged into one Gmail account in your normal window. If you open Incognito Mode, you can sign into another Gmail account without logging out of the first one.
To Avoid Cookies and Targeted Ads
Cookies are small files that websites use to remember you. If you don’t want websites tracking your activity or showing targeted ads, Incognito Mode can help avoid some of that.
To Test Websites as a New User
Web developers often use Incognito to see how their websites look and behave to first-time visitors, without any saved cache or cookies.
What Incognito Mode Does
Incognito Mode helps protect your privacy in some basic ways.
No Browsing History Saved
Once you close your Incognito window, your browser won’t remember the websites you visited.
No Cookies Stored
Cookies collected during your Incognito session are deleted when the window is closed. This means websites won’t recognize you after your session ends.
No Auto-Fill or Saved Data
Passwords, email addresses, and form entries you type in Incognito Mode will not be saved.
What Incognito Mode Does Not Do
There’s a common myth that Incognito Mode makes you “invisible” online. This is not true. Let’s look at what it does not protect you from.
Your Employer or School Can Still See You
If you’re using a work or school computer, the network admins can still track your activity, even in Incognito Mode.
Your Internet Provider Can Track You
Even in Incognito, your ISP can see the websites you visit. If privacy from your provider is important to you, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
Websites Can Still Track You
Websites can still track your IP address and gather information about your device, location, and browser type.
You’re Not Safe From Viruses
Incognito Mode doesn’t protect you from malware, phishing, or viruses. You still need antivirus protection and safe browsing habits.
How to Use Incognito Mode in Popular Browsers
Each browser has its own way to enter Incognito Mode. Here’s a simple guide for each one.
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome.
- Click the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Select “New Incognito Window.”
Or use the shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows)
Command + Shift + N (Mac)
A new window will open with a dark background and a hat-and-glasses icon.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox.
- Click the three lines in the top-right corner.
- Choose “New Private Window.”
Shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows)
Command + Shift + P (Mac)
Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge.
- Click the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Select “New InPrivate Window.”
Shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows)
Command + Shift + N (Mac)
Apple Safari
- Open Safari.
- Go to the File menu.
- Select “New Private Window.”
Shortcut:
Command + Shift + N (Mac)
Note: Safari turns the address bar dark gray to show you’re in Private Mode.
Pros and Cons of Using Incognito Mode
Like all tools, Incognito Mode has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s go over them.
Pros
- Keeps browsing history clean: Great for temporary research or private tasks.
- Useful for shared computers: Stops others from seeing your searches.
- Helps with account switching: Good for logging into multiple sites.
- Reduces cookie tracking: Stops websites from storing cookies on your device.
Cons
- Not fully private: Your ISP, employer, or websites can still see your activity.
- Doesn’t block ads or trackers completely: You still leave some digital footprints.
- No protection from viruses or phishing: It’s not a security tool.
- Not good for long-term privacy: Once you close the window, your session is gone forever — including anything unsaved.
When Should You Use Incognito Mode?
Incognito Mode is helpful in certain situations but not meant for all browsing.
Good Times to Use It
- Shopping on a shared computer
- Looking up personal or private topics
- Checking how a site looks without being logged in
- Using someone else’s device
- Logging into multiple accounts at once
When to Avoid Relying on It
- When you need real online privacy
- When doing banking on public Wi-Fi
- When accessing sensitive work data
- When trying to hide from your employer or ISP
For better protection, combine Incognito Mode with a VPN, ad blockers, and safe browsing habits.
Is Incognito Mode Safe?
Yes, Incognito Mode is safe for basic use — like keeping your browsing off your local history. But remember, it’s not a shield from hackers, viruses, or tracking by your network.
If you’re handling sensitive data or need strong privacy, consider using:
- VPN (to hide your IP and encrypt data)
- HTTPS websites (for secure connections)
- Antivirus software (for protection against malware)
Tips for Better Private Browsing
Here are some simple tips to boost your privacy while using Incognito Mode:
Use a VPN
A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your connection. It adds another layer of privacy that Incognito Mode alone can’t offer.
Don’t Log Into Accounts
If you want true privacy, don’t log into Google, Facebook, or other accounts that can still track you in Incognito.
Use Secure Sites
Always look for “HTTPS” at the start of the web address. It means the site is using a secure connection.
Clear Downloads and Bookmarks
Files you download and bookmarks you save are not private — they remain even after you close the Incognito window.
Final Thoughts
Incognito Mode is a great tool for quick privacy. It stops your browser from remembering what you did, but it’s not a full privacy solution.
Think of it like a disposable notepad: great for temporary use, but not secure enough to store sensitive information long-term.
If you want stronger privacy, pair it with tools like VPNs, secure browsers (like Brave or Tor), and always practice safe browsing.