When testing websites or troubleshooting user issues, opening the site in an Incognito (Chrome)or InPrivate (Edge/Firefox) window provides a clean, controlled environment. This will help us determine if the issue is with your account or if it lies within your browser. These modes will:

 

• Bypass saved cache, cookies, and sessions, showing the most up-to-date version of the site.
• Prevent auto-login, allowing you to test as a first-time or anonymous user.
• Run separately from your main browser session; great for checking different accounts or user roles.
• Disable most browser extensions, helping isolate potential conflicts.

 

Tip: If a site works in Incognito/InPrivate window, but not in your regular window, the issue is likely related to cached data, cookies, or browser extensions.  Click here for instructions on how to clear your cache/cookies/temporary internet files.

 

Microsoft Edge
Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Safari

 

Microsoft Edge – InPrivate Window

1. Open Edge.
   
2. Click the three dots (...), in the top-right corner.
3. Click New InPrivate Window.
   
    
4. A new window will open with a dark theme and InPrivate in the upper right-hand corner.
5. Navigate to the website to begin testing.

 

Keyboard Shortcut:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mac: Command + Shift + N

 

 

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Google Chrome – Incognito Window

1. Open Chrome.
   
2. Click the three dots (⋮), in the top-right corner.
3. Click New Incognito Window.
   
    
4. A new window will open with a dark theme and Incognito in the upper right-hand corner.
5. Go to the website you want to test by typing the URL in the address bar.

 

Keyboard Shortcut:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mac: Command + Shift + N

 

 

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Mozilla Firefox – Private Window

1. Open Firefox.
   
2. Click the three lines (≡), in the top-right corner.
3. Click New Private Window.
   
    
4. A new window will open with a dark theme and Private browsing in the upper right-hand corner.
5. Enter the website URL and begin testing.

 

Keyboard Shortcut:

• Windows: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Mac: Command + Shift + P

 

 

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Safari – Private Browsing Window

For macOS (iMac, MacBook, Mac Mini):

1. Open Safari.
   
2. Click File, on the top left of your screen.
3. Click New Private Window.
4. A new window will open with a dark address bar and a message confirming Private Browsing is enabled.
5. Enter the website URL in the address bar to begin testing.

 

Keyboard Shortcut:

• Command + Shift + N

 

For iOS (Safari on iPhone/iPad):

1. Open the Safari app.
2. Tap the Tabs icon (two overlapping squares in the bottom right corner).
3. Tap [X] Tabs or Start Page, at the bottom center.
4. Choose Private.
5. Tap + to open a new Private tab.
6. Enter the website URL and test as needed.