How to Use Private Browser: Protect Your Online Privacy with Tips and Best Browsers

What is private browser?

The private browser, also calledIncognito Modeor private browsing mode, is a feature present in major browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari. It is designed to offer a more discreet browsing experience by preventing certain data from being saved on the device after the session ends.

When you use your browser's incognito mode, the following data is not stored locally:

• Browsing history: Websites you've visited won't appear in the history list.
• Cookies and website data: Temporary information used for page personalization and tracking is deleted when you close the window.
• Autofill information: No data entered into forms, such as logins and passwords, will be saved.

This functionality is particularly useful for those seeking greater privacy when performing specific activities online. However, it is important to understandHow browser incognito mode worksto know exactly what he does – and what he doesn't do.

How does the private browser work?

Unlike normal mode, the private browser creates a temporary isolated session. This means that:

1. No session sharing: Tabs open in private mode do not share cookies or data with normal tabs, ensuring greater isolation.
2. Automatic Wipe on Closing: As soon as the private window is closed, all browsing-related information such as history and cookies are automatically deleted.
3. Doesn't block external tracking: While it prevents local data storage, the private browser doesn't prevent your ISP or the website you're visiting from tracking your online activities. For greater anonymity, it would be necessary to use additional tools such as a VPN or browsers such as Tor.

Advantages and disadvantages of the private browser

Advantages:

• Local protection: Ideal for preventing others using the same device from seeing your browsing history.
• Secure temporary sessions: Useful when accessing personal accounts on shared or public computers.
• Prevents forced personalization: Because cookies are not stored, ads and personalized recommendations based on your browsing do not appear.

Disadvantages:

• False sense of security: Many users believe that incognito mode offers complete anonymity, which is not true.
• No protection from external monitoring: Public Wi-Fi networks, ISPs, and the websites themselves can still collect information about your activities.

Differences between normal mode and private mode in browser

OrNormal modeIt is ideal for everyday use, while thePrivate Modeexcels in situations where local privacy is a priority.

With the private browser, you have greater control over your activities on the device, but it's essential to know when and how to use it correctly to take advantage of it.

Common Private Browser Applications

OrPrivate BrowserIt is a versatile tool that can be used in various everyday situations. While it does not offer complete anonymity, it is extremely useful for protecting local privacy and preventing the storage of unwanted information. Here are some of theMost common situationswhere the private browser can make all the difference:

1. Use on public or shared computers

When accessing personal accounts on third-party devices, such as libraries, cyber cafes, or work computers,Incognito browser modehelps prevent that:

• Your login credentials are saved.
• Data filled in forms is stored.
• Your browsing history is visible to other users.

For example, if you access your email or make online payments from a shared computer, using the private browser protects your information when you log out.

2. Online shopping and booking without price manipulation

Many shopping and travel sites useCookiesto track your searches and, in some cases, increase the prices of products or services viewed repeatedly. Browsing in private mode allows you to:

• Search for airline tickets or hotel reservations without the influence of cookies.
• Avoid price changes based on your search history.

For example, when planning a trip, opening the private browser ensures more transparent quotes and reduces the risk of artificial variations in prices.

3. Website testing and development

Software developers and testers often use the private browser to:

• Check how a website performs without cached data.
• Simulate access for a new user with no history.
• Ensure that updates made to the site are displayed correctly.

For example, when launching a new feature on a website, using the private browser helps identify potential issues that wouldn't appear in a normal session.

4. Sensitive or personal research

If you need to search for sensitive information, such as medical, financial, or legal issues, the private browser prevents these searches from being saved in your history. This is especially important in situations where the device is shared, such as in families or offices.

For example, when looking for information about health care or checking your bank, incognito mode protects your privacy.

5. Managing multiple online accounts

The private browser is useful for accessing two different accounts on the same website, without having to leave one of them.

• Ideal for social networks (e.g., a personal and a professional account).
• It makes it easy to manage platforms such as Gmail, LinkedIn or Facebook.

For example, you can be logged into your main account in a regular tab and use private mode to access another account without interruptions.

6. Avoid personalized ads

Many online advertisements are based on your browsing history and cookies. Using the private browser prevents this data from being collected during the session, reducing unwanted ad personalization.

For example, if you search for gifts for someone, using incognito mode prevents those products from appearing in ads, preserving the surprise.

Summary of the main applications

The private browser is a powerful tool, especially in situations that demand greater privacy and discretion. Knowing how and when to use it can make all the difference in your online experience!

Recommended Private Browsers

Choosing an effective private browser is essential for anyone looking to improve online privacy and security. While all popular browsers offer "incognito mode," some options have been specially designed to protect user privacy by going beyond basic functionality. Here are the "best recommended private browsers", divided between traditional and specialized browsers.

1. Traditional browsers with built-in private mode

These browsers are widely used and have aPrivate ModePractical and easy to activate.

1.1 Google Chrome (Incognito Mode)

• Strengths: Popular and easy to use, available on all platforms.
• How to use: Enable incognito mode by pressing Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + N (Mac).
• Limitations: While useful, it doesn't block external trackers and still allows your ISP to see your activity.

1.2 Mozilla Firefox (Private Window)

• Strengths: Focus on privacy, with additional tools like tracking protection.
• How to use: Click on the menu and choose "New Private Window".
• Highlight: Support for extensions such as "lock Origin", which blocks ads even in private mode.

1.3 Microsoft Edge (InPrivate Mode)

• Strengths: Integration with Windows, fast performance, and easy activation.
• How to use: Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select "New InPrivate Window".
• Highlight: Provides a privacy dashboard to manage tracking settings.

1.4 Safari (Private Window)

• Strengths: Exclusive to Apple devices, optimized for local privacy.
• How to use: Go to the "File" menu and choose "New Private Window".
• Limitations: Although secure, it has fewer customization options compared to other browsers.

2. Browsers specialized in privacy

If you need more robust protection, there are browsers created exclusively to offerComplete anonymityand block advanced trackers.

2.1 Brave

• Main focus: Ad blocking, trackers, and fingerprinting protection.
• Additional features: Integration with Tor for anonymous browsing.
• Indication: Perfect for users who want privacy without sacrificing speed.

2.2 Tor Browser

• Main focus: Anonymous browsing with traffic redirection across multiple servers.
• Additional Features: Hides your IP, making it ideal for accessing censored content or avoiding extreme tracking.
• Limitations: May be slower due to encrypted routing.

2.3 DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser

• Main focus: Privacy-first mobile browser with automatic tracker blocking.
• Additional features: Integration with the DuckDuckGo search engine, which does not collect user data.
• Indication: Excellent for those who mainly use smartphones and tablets.

2.4 Epic Privacy Browser

• Main focus: Ad blocking, trackers, and real-time data collection.
• Additional features: Built-in proxy to hide your IP address.
• Indication: A lightweight alternative for those looking for greater privacy in desktop browsers.

Summary of recommended browsers

When choosing the private browser that best suits your needs, consider your desired level of privacy and ease of use. For basic and practical browsing, the private mode of traditional browsers is sufficient. However, if the goal is anonymity and advanced protection, browsers likeBraveandTorare highly recommended.

How to use the private browser?

OrPrivate BrowserIt's simple to use, but many users don't fully exploit its features. Next, you'll find aPractical guideto enable and enjoy private mode in the most popular browsers, as well as someAdvanced Tipsto optimize the use of this tool.

How to enable private mode in major browsers?

1. Google Chrome (Incognito Mode)

• Activation: On your computer: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + N (Mac). On mobile: Tap the three dots in the upper right corner, select **New Incognito Tab**.
• Identification: The icon of a hat with glasses appears at the top of the window.
• Extra Tip: You can pin the incognito mode shortcut to the desktop for quick access.

2. Mozilla Firefox (Private Window)

• Activation: On your computer: Press Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + P (Mac). On mobile: Tap the menu (three lines or dots) and select **New Private Tab**.
• Identification: The interface displays a purple mask icon in the private window.
• Extra tip: Use permanent mode in settings so that all tabs are private by default.

3. Microsoft Edge (InPrivate Mode)

• Activation: On the computer: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows). On mobile: Tap the menu and select **New InPrivate Tab**.
• ID: The window shows the label "InPrivate" in the upper corner.
• Extra tip: Set Edge to always open in InPrivate mode when launching.

4. Safari (Private Window)

• Activation: On desktop: Go to File > **New Private Window**. On iPhone/iPad: Tap the tabs button, select Private, and confirm.
• Identification: The address bar goes dark and displays a privacy notice.
• Extra tip: On macOS, you can use a keyboard shortcut: Cmd + Shift + N.

5. Brave (Private Window with or without Tor)

• Activation: Normal Private Window: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + N (Mac). Private Window with Tor: Press Alt + Shift + N (Windows) or select the option from the main menu.
• Identification: Purple mask icon (private mode) or "Tor active" indication in the address bar.

Advanced Tips to Use Private Browser More Effectively

1. Combine private browser with a VPN

• Private mode prevents data from being stored on the device, but it doesn't hide your activity from ISPs or websites you visit. Using a VPN (like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or DICloak) adds a layer of protection by hiding your IP address and encrypting your traffic.

2. Disable unnecessary extensions

• Some extensions may continue to monitor your activity even in private mode. In the browser's settings menu, ensure that only trusted extensions are enabled.

3. Prevent logins to personal accounts

• While it's safe to access your accounts in private mode, logging into platforms like Google or Facebook can limit your privacy, as these platforms are still able to track your activity while you're logged in.

4. Clear the data when you log out

• The private browser already deletes cookies and history when you log out, but just in case, review the automatic clearing settings and make sure no information remains saved.

5. Quick shortcuts to open the browser in private mode

• On Windows, right-click on the browser icon and select "Open in Private Mode."
• On mobile, set a widget or direct shortcut to launch in private mode.

Steps to optimize the private browser experience

With these steps, you will be able to use the private browser safely and efficiently, making the most of your privacy and protecting your information while browsing.

Common questions about the private browser

Q1. Does private browser make me fully anonymous?

No. OrPrivate Browserprevents cookies, history, and other local data from being saved on your device, but itdoes not hide your IP addressnor does it prevent internet providers or websites from monitoring your activity. For complete anonymity, it is recommended to combine the private browser with aVPNor the use of browsers.

Q2. What's the difference between private mode and a VPN?

Private mode protects your privacy at the local level by preventing information from being saved on your device.

A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts all your internet traffic, protecting your connection from external tracking.

Q3. Can I download files in private mode?

Yes, you can download files, but remember:

Downloaded files remain on the device even after ending private mode.

The download history (the list of downloaded files) will be cleared, but not the files themselves.

Q4. Do private browsers block ads?

Not all. Some browsers, such as "Brave," automatically block ads and trackers. However, browsers likeChromeorFirefoxrequire the use of extensions, such asuBlock Originor AdBlock, for that functionality.

Q5. Is it possible to use extensions in private mode?

Yes, but you need to activate them manually:

Chrome and Edge: Go to the extension settings and enable the "Allow in incognito mode" option.

Firefox: Enable it in the specific settings of each extension.

Attention: Some extensions can compromise your privacy, so only use the ones you trust.

Q6. Does private browser protect my data from hackers?

Not directly. Private mode is useful for preventing data from being stored on the device, but it does not protect against hacker attacks. To do this, it is necessary to:

• Use secure connections (HTTPS).
• Combine the browser with a VPN and an up-to-date antivirus.

Q7. Can I open multiple private windows at the same time?

Yes. However, each private window or tab shares the same session. This means that if you log into an account in one tab, the other private tabs will be able to access the same information.

Q8. Can I use private mode to access content that is blocked in my region?

Not necessarily. Private mode doesn't change your IP address, so geo-blocked content will remain inaccessible. To work around this limitation, you need to use aVPNor the "Tor Browser".

Q9. Are private browsers safe for online shopping?

Yes, as long as you take precautions, such as:

• Make sure that the site is reliable and uses "HTTPS".
• Don't use public Wi-Fi networks without additional protection (like a VPN).
• Note: Private browser prevents saving card data in history, which is useful for local security.

Q10. Do private browsers work on mobile devices?

Yes! All popular browsers such as Chrome, Firefox,Safariand Brave, have private mode in their mobile versions. In addition, there are dedicated privacy browsers, such as the "DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser", which are optimized for smartphones.