3 Ways to Open Microsoft Edge in Incognito Mode Every Time

Key Notes

  • Modify the Edge shortcut to enable Incognito mode.
  • Edit the registry to ensure Incognito mode is available.
  • Adjust Edge privacy settings for enhanced data clearing.

Mastering Microsoft Edge: How to Launch in Incognito Mode Automatically

If you’re concerned about your privacy while browsing the web, using Microsoft Edge’s Incognito mode can certainly help. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to configure Microsoft Edge to always launch in private browsing mode for enhanced privacy. This involves modifying shortcuts, editing the Windows registry, and adjusting your browser’s privacy settings.

How to Automatically Set Microsoft Edge to Incognito Mode?

Step 1: Adjust the Shortcut for Edge

First, locate the Microsoft Edge shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu. Right-click on it and select Properties.

Pro Tip: Ensure you’re modifying the correct shortcut that you use daily.

Next, in the Target field, append -inprivate to the end of the existing text. It’s crucial to add a space before -inprivate.

Once you’ve done this, click Apply and then OK to confirm the changes. From now on, always use this modified shortcut to open Edge in Incognito mode.

Step 2: Edit the Registry to Enable Incognito Mode

Press Windows + R, type regedit in the dialog box, and hit OK.

Navigate through the following path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft .

Right-click on the Microsoft key and choose New, then Key, and name this new key Edge.

Inside the Edge key, right-click in the right pane, select New and then DWORD (32-bit) Value.

Name this DWORD InPrivateModeAvailability. After creating it, double-click the DWORD to adjust its properties, setting the Value data to 2. This will enable Incognito mode by default whenever Edge is launched.

Step 3: Change Edge Privacy Settings for Enhanced Control

Open the Edge browser, click on the Menu icon (three dots), and select Settings.

Navigate to Privacy, search, and services from the sidebar.

Click on Choose what to clear every time you close the browser.

Select all available options listed in this section. While this setting will not fully replicate Incognito mode, it will ensure that your browsing data is cleared at the end of each session, providing a semblance of privacy.

Additional Tips

  • Regularly update Microsoft Edge to benefit from the latest privacy features.
  • Consider enabling the built-in tracking prevention features in settings.
  • Be aware that browsing in Incognito mode does not guarantee complete anonymity; your ISP and certain websites may still track your activity.

Summary

By following these steps, you can easily configure Microsoft Edge to open in Incognito mode automatically. Modifying shortcuts, adjusting the Windows registry, and setting privacy preferences are key to enhancing your browsing privacy seamlessly.

Conclusion

Taking control of your web browsing privacy is essential in today’s digital landscape. By implementing these settings in Microsoft Edge, you are ensuring a more private browsing experience every time you open the browser. Don’t hesitate to explore additional privacy options available in Edge to further secure your online presence.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I disable Incognito mode in Edge if needed?

Yes, you can reverse the steps covered in this guide to remove the Incognito settings from your Edge browser.

Does using Incognito mode increase my online privacy?

Incognito mode prevents Edge from saving browsing history, but it does not hide your activity from your ISP or the websites you visit.