How to Use Incognito Mode in Your Browser

Open a private browsing window that does not save your history, cookies, or site data after you close it.

Steps

1
Open your web browser on your computer or phone.
Chrome, Safari, and Firefox all have private browsing modes with different names.
2
Click the three-dot menu in Chrome and select "New Incognito Window."
In Firefox, click the hamburger menu and choose "New Private Window." In Safari, go to File and click "New Private Window."
3
Look for the dark icon or badge that shows you are in private mode.
Chrome shows a spy icon. Safari shows "Private Browsing" in the address bar.
4
Browse websites as you normally would.
Your history and cookies are not saved. Other people using the same device cannot see what you visited.
5
Close the private window when you are done.
All browsing data from that session is deleted automatically when you close all private tabs.

Does incognito mode make me anonymous online?Show

No, your internet service provider and the websites you visit can still see your activity. Incognito only hides browsing from local device users.

Does incognito mode block ads?Show

No, incognito mode does not block ads. You still see the same ads as in normal browsing mode.

Can I use incognito mode on my phone?Show

Yes, mobile browsers have private modes too. Chrome has Incognito, Safari has Private Browsing, and Firefox has Private tabs on phones.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated May 18, 2026.