Browsing privately in Chrome’s Incognito mode is vital for maintaining your online privacy. However, switching from a standard tab to Incognito can be cumbersome if done manually, especially when it involves copying URLs each time. Fortunately, there are several efficient methods to help you easily switch to private browsing without the hassle of manual navigation. This guide will reveal alternative approaches to streamline your transition into Incognito mode.
1. Set Up the Open Incognito Tab Extension
One of the most effective ways to toggle between browsing modes is by utilizing the Open Incognito Tab extension. This handy tool allows you to shift open tabs to Incognito windows instantly with a click.
To begin, visit the Chrome Web Store and find the extension. Once installed, access your extensions by clicking the extension icon on the right side of the address bar in Chrome. Pin the Open Incognito Tab extension to your toolbar by clicking the pin icon next to it.
Whenever you’re browsing and decide a website would be better in Incognito mode, simply click the Open Incognito Tab icon. The website will instantly open in a new Incognito window—easy and efficient!
If you want to return to regular browsing, just click the extension icon again and select Close Incognito.
The extension can also be configured to close the original tab once you’ve opened an Incognito window. To enable this feature, click on the Extensions icon, navigate to your desired extension, click the three dots, and select Options. Then, adjust the setting next to Close the tab? to Yes.
2. Utilize the Page Context Menu
No need for extensions? No problem! You can quickly open a tab in Incognito mode using the page context menu.
Simply right-click anywhere on the page and select Open this tab in incognito from the context menu. This action will open the current website in a new Incognito window while also erasing the page from your history, enhancing your privacy as you browse.
3. Make a Custom Shortcut
If you frequently visit certain websites in Incognito mode, creating a custom shortcut can save you time. This method requires administrative privileges on your Windows device.
To create a shortcut, right-click on the existing Chrome icon and select More Options -> Create a Shortcut. Rename the new shortcut to differentiate it from the regular icon.
Right-click the shortcut and select Properties.
In the Shortcut tab, append the following to the end of the Target field:
Hit OK, and double-click this shortcut whenever you wish to access that site in Incognito mode. Take note that if you are using Chrome on your mobile device, you may be able to retain Incognito tabs from your previous browsing session—a feature unique to iPhones in this regard.
4. Install the Search Incognito Extension
If you want to search for terms while in Incognito mode, the Search Incognito extension is perfect for you. This tool allows you to look up words or phrases you find without leaving a trace in your main browser.
Though this extension may be phased out soon due to Google’s updated policies, it remains operational for now and is worth exploring. Install it from the Chrome Web Store.
After installation, set your location, navigate to the page of interest, select the desired text, right-click, and choose the option to search in Incognito mode. This will open a new window where your search will occur. While many extensions are disabled in Incognito mode, Chrome allows some selections to function, enhancing your browsing options.
Image credit: Pexels. Screenshots provided by Alexandra Arici.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I switch to Incognito mode without an extension?
You can quickly open a webpage in Incognito mode by right-clicking on the page and selecting Open this tab in incognito from the context menu. This method doesn’t require any extensions and effectively hides your browsing history.
2. Are there any privacy benefits of using Incognito mode?
Yes, Incognito mode prevents Chrome from saving your browsing history, cookies, and site data. This means that when you’re done browsing and you close the Incognito window, none of the information will be stored in your regular browsing history.
3. Can I still use extensions while in Incognito mode?
Some extensions can be enabled in Incognito mode. You can manage which extensions are allowed by going to Extensions in Chrome, selecting the extension, and adjusting its settings to allow for Incognito access.
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