Private or Incognito browsing functions by automatically removing local data from your web browsing sessions. This means that search history is not saved, cookies are disabled or blocked, and trackers and third-party toolbars are disabled. Since a private search function doesn’t store cookies, you won’t be served ads related to the websites you visited while using your private browsing window. 

Opening an Incognito Browser on Chrome 

Option 1:

Step 1: Open a new Chrome window. 

Step 2: In the top right corner select the three dots to open a menu. On this menu select the "New Incognito Window" 

Option 2: 

Step 1: Right click the shortcut if its pinned to your start menu bringing up a small menu. Click the "New Incognito Window" button.

Option 3: 

Step 1: Use the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl+Shift+N" 

Opening an Incognito Browser on Safari

Option 1:

Step 1: Open a new Safari window. 

Step 2: In the top left bar select "File". On this menu select the "New Private Window" 

Option 2: 

Step 1: Right click the shortcut if its pinned to your start menu bringing up a small menu. Click the "New Private Window" button.

Option 3: 

Step 1: Use the keyboard shortcut "Shift+Command+N" 

Opening an Incognito Browser on Firefox

Option 1:

Step 1: Open a new Firefox window. 

Step 2: In the top right corner select the three bars to open a menu. On this menu select the "New Incognito Window" 

Option 2: 

Step 1: Right click the shortcut if its pinned to your start menu bringing up a small menu. Click the "New Incognito Window" button.

Option 3: 

Step 1: Use the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl+Shift+P" 

Opening an Incognito Browser on Edge

Option 1:

Step 1: Open a new Edge window. 

Step 2: In the top right corner select the three dots to open a menu. On this menu select the "New Incognito Window" 

Option 2: 

Step 1: Right click the shortcut if its pinned to your start menu bringing up a small menu. Click the "New Incognito Window" button.

Option 3: 

Step 1: Use the keyboard shortcut "Ctrl+Shift+N" 

How to Get Help

• Technical assistance is available through the Technology Support Center at (309) 438-4357, by email at SupportCenter@IllinoisState.edu, or by Live Chat at Help.IllinoisState.edu.