How to open an InPrivate window in Edge

Checking how a page looks when you're signed out, or using a shared computer? An InPrivate window is one shortcut away.

Step by step

1. In Edge, press Ctrl+Shift+N.
2. A new InPrivate window opens.
3. Close the window (Alt+F4) when you're done.

Tips & troubleshooting

• InPrivate doesn't save your browsing history on the device, but it doesn't hide your activity from your employer or network.
• Ctrl+N opens an ordinary new window.

What InPrivate does

When you close every InPrivate window, Edge deletes that session's browsing history, cookies, site data and anything typed into forms. Nothing from the session appears in History or in address bar suggestions. During the session the window is separate from your normal one, so sites don't see your usual cookies and you start signed out everywhere.

What it does not do

• It does not hide your activity from your employer, school or internet provider. They can still see which sites are visited.
• It does not hide you from websites. They still see your IP address, and if you sign in they know exactly who you are.
• It does not delete downloads or favourites. Files you save and favourites you add are kept.
• It is not a VPN and adds no protection against malware or phishing.

Practical uses at work

• See a page as a signed-out visitor, for example to check what the public sees on your SharePoint or company site.
• Sign in to a second account, such as a client's Microsoft 365 tenant, without signing out of your own.
• Use a shared or borrowed computer without leaving your logins behind.
• Troubleshoot a site that misbehaves. If it works InPrivate, a cookie or an extension is the likely cause.

Useful details

• Right-click any link and choose Open link in InPrivate window.
• Extensions are switched off in InPrivate unless you allow each one on the Extensions page.
• A blue InPrivate badge at the top of the window shows which mode you are in.
• Some organisations disable InPrivate through policy, in which case the shortcut does nothing.
• On a Mac the shortcut is Cmd+Shift+N. Chrome uses the same keys for an Incognito window.