Opening links in private mode in Microsoft Edge allows you to browse without saving your browsing history, cookies, site data, or information entered in forms. This ensures your activity remains private to others using the same device. There are two primary ways to achieve this: starting a new InPrivate browsing session, or opening a specific link from a regular browsing window into a new InPrivate window.
1. Starting a New InPrivate Browsing Session
To begin a new private browsing session where all subsequent links you open within that window will be in InPrivate mode, follow these steps:
- Open the Edge Menu: Locate the three-dot menu icon (often referred to as "Settings and more") in the upper-right-hand corner of your Edge browser window.
- Select New InPrivate window: From the dropdown menu, choose the option labeled "New InPrivate window."
A new browser window will open, indicating that you are now browsing in InPrivate mode. Any website you visit or link you click within this specific window will operate under InPrivate rules, meaning no browsing data will be saved after you close the window.
2. Opening a Specific Link in a New InPrivate Window
If you are currently browsing in a regular Edge window and wish to open a particular link in a new private session without affecting your current browsing, you can do so directly:
- Right-Click the Link: Locate the link you want to open in private mode.
- Choose "Open link in InPrivate window": Right-click on the link. A context menu will appear. Select the option that says "Open link in InPrivate window."
This action will launch a brand new InPrivate window, with your chosen link already loaded in it, while your original browsing session remains undisturbed.
Benefits of Using InPrivate Mode
Using InPrivate mode in Edge offers several advantages for your privacy and browsing experience:
- No Browsing History: Pages you visit won't be saved in your browsing history.
- Temporary Cookies: Cookies and site data are deleted once you close all InPrivate windows.
- No Form Data Saved: Information you type into forms (like usernames or passwords) won't be remembered for future use.
- Prevents Tracking: Helps in limiting some forms of online tracking by third-party websites during your session.
- Multiple Logins: Allows you to log into multiple accounts on the same website simultaneously (e.g., two different Gmail accounts) by using one in a regular window and another in an InPrivate window.
Quick Guide: Opening InPrivate Windows
Here's a quick reference for initiating an InPrivate session:
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| New InPrivate Window | 1. Click the three-dot menu (Settings and more) in the upper-right corner. 2. Select "New InPrivate window." |
| Open Specific Link in InPrivate Window | 1. Right-click on the desired link. 2. Select "Open link in InPrivate window." |
| Keyboard Shortcut | Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Command + Shift + N (macOS) to instantly open a new InPrivate window. |
For more information on browsing privately, you can refer to the official Microsoft Edge support pages. Staying informed about your browser's privacy features empowers you to manage your online presence effectively.
