Table of Contents
Context
When changes made to a website are not visible, the issue is often caused by the browser’s local cache. Browsers store temporary files such as pages, images, and cookies to improve loading speed.
Opening a private (incognito) window helps verify whether the issue is caused by cached data, as it loads the website without using previously stored browsing information.
Microsoft Edge
To open a private window in Microsoft Edge:
- Click the three dots in the upper-right corner
- Select “New InPrivate window”
You can also use the shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + N
Google Chrome
To open an incognito window in Chrome:
- Click the three dots in the upper-right corner
- Select “New incognito window”
Shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + N
Mozilla Firefox
To open a private window in Firefox:
- Click the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner
- Select “New private window”
Shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + P
Opera
To open a private window in Opera:
- Click the Opera logo in the upper-left corner
- Select “New private window”
Shortcut:
Ctrl + Shift + N
Summary
Private browsing mode helps verify website changes by bypassing cached data stored in the browser. If a website appears outdated, testing it in a private window is a quick way to confirm whether the issue is cache-related.