How to Use Private Browsing (Incognito Mode) in Mac Safari

Private browsing or incognito mode is a useful feature available in most modern web browsers, including Safari on Mac. It enables users to surf the web without leaving behind any traces of browsing history, cookies, or other temporary data. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of using private browsing mode in Safari on a Mac and answer some frequently asked questions.

How do I enable private browsing in Safari on Mac?

To enable private browsing in Safari on your Mac, follow these steps:
1. Launch Safari from your Applications folder or the Dock.
2. Click on ‘File’ in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
3. From the drop-down menu, select ‘New Private Window’.
4. A new window will open, indicating that you are now in private browsing mode.

Is private browsing truly private?

Private browsing does offer some level of privacy, but it’s important to understand its limitations. While it prevents Safari from saving your browsing history, search history, and cookies, it does not make you completely anonymous online. Your internet service provider, the websites you visit, and network administrators may still be able to track your online activities.

Can I use extensions and plugins in private browsing mode?

Safari disables all extensions and plugins while in private browsing mode by default. However, you can choose to enable specific plugins if necessary. Go to ‘Safari’ in the menu bar, click on ‘Preferences’, select the ‘Security’ tab, and check the box next to ‘Allow ‘Plug-ins’ in Private Browsing’.

Can I open multiple private windows in Safari?

Yes, you can open multiple private windows in Safari. Simply follow the same steps mentioned in the first question to open a new private window, and you can have as many as you need. Each private window operates independently, ensuring that your browsing sessions don’t interfere with each other.

Will private browsing mode prevent websites from tracking me with cookies?

Yes, private browsing mode stops Safari from storing cookies generated during your private session. However, keep in mind that websites can still use other techniques to track you, like fingerprinting based on your browser and device settings.

Can I bookmark websites while using private browsing?

Safari’s private browsing mode allows you to bookmark websites just like in regular browsing mode. However, these bookmarks will not be saved once you exit private mode. If you wish to retain the bookmarks, you should save them elsewhere before closing the private window.

Can I use private browsing on my iPhone or iPad?

Yes, Safari’s private browsing feature is available on both Mac and iOS devices. To enable private browsing on your iPhone or iPad, open Safari, tap on the overlapping squares icon in the lower right corner to view all open tabs, and then tap on ‘Private’ in the lower-left corner.

Using private browsing mode in Safari on your Mac can help protect your privacy by preventing the browser from storing your browsing history and cookies. However, it’s important to understand that private browsing does not make you completely anonymous online. Knowing how to use private browsing effectively can help you maintain a certain level of privacy while browsing the web.