TechSynchron

Step-By-Step Guide: How To View Private Browsing History On Iphone

how to search history on private safari

Quick Answer: To view private browsing history on an iPhone, you can make use of various methods and tools. This article will guide you through the steps to uncover the secret browsing history on your iPhone device.

Are you curious about what your friends or family members have been secretly browsing on their iPhones? Or maybe you want to keep an eye on your own private browsing activities? Whatever the reason may be, accessing private browsing history on an iPhone might seem like a daunting task. The truth is, it’s not impossible.

In this blog post, we will show you how to view private browsing history on an iPhone. We’ll explain different methods and tools you can use to dig into the hidden browsing data. So let’s dive right in and unveil the secrets of private browsing history on an iPhone.

How to View Private Browsing History on iPhone

Introduction: understanding private browsing on iphone.

Before we dive into discovering how to view private browsing history on an iPhone, let’s first understand what private browsing entails. Private browsing is a feature provided by most web browsers, including Safari on the iPhone, that allows users to browse the internet without leaving any traces of their browsing history, cookies, or other data on the device. This feature can be useful for maintaining privacy, preventing websites from tracking your online activities, and keeping personal information secure. However, there may be instances where you need to access private browsing history for various reasons. In this article, we will explore different methods to view private browsing history on your iPhone.

Method 1: Viewing Private Browsing History using Safari

Safari, the default web browser on iPhones, does not provide a direct option to view private browsing history. However, there is a workaround to retrieve this information from your device’s backup using a third-party tool. Follow these steps:

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes or Finder.

2. Select your device and click on the “Restore Backup” option.

3. Choose a backup that was created before the private browsing session you want to access.

4. Use an iPhone backup viewer tool such as iExplorer or iPhone Backup Extractor to extract the Safari browsing history from the backup file.

5. Search for the specific private browsing history records you are looking for within the extracted data.

Method 2: Checking Domain Names in Safari

Although Safari doesn’t provide a direct way to view private browsing history, you can still check the domain names visited during a private browsing session. Follow these steps:

1. Open Safari on your iPhone.

2. Tap on the address bar at the top of the screen.

3. You will see a list of frequently visited websites. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and tap on “Show All History.”

4. Here, you can see a list of domains visited during both regular and private browsing sessions.

5. Tap on a domain to see the specific webpages visited under that domain.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps

If retrieving private browsing history from Safari proves challenging, you can consider using third-party apps specifically designed to track web activities, including private browsing sessions. These apps offer advanced browsing history features and may require installation and configuration on your iPhone. Some popular options include:

  • Qustodio: Qustodio is a comprehensive parental control app that provides browsing history tracking among other features. Install the app on your child’s iPhone and set it up to monitor private browsing history.
  • FlexiSPY: FlexiSPY is a powerful spy app that enables you to monitor various activities on an iPhone, including browsing history, even during private browsing sessions.
  • mSpy: mSpy is another popular monitoring app that allows you to track browsing history, including private sessions, on an iPhone remotely.

Method 4: Checking Router Logs

If the private browsing history you’re trying to access was made on a Wi-Fi network at home or work, you can check the router logs to gather information about the websites visited. Keep in mind that this method requires technical expertise and access to the router’s settings. Here’s an overview:

1. Launch a web browser on a device connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the iPhone.

2. Enter the router’s IP address into the browser’s address bar. Check the router’s documentation or search online to find the default IP address.

3. Enter the router’s username and password to log in to the settings interface.

4. Look for a section related to logs or browsing history. The exact location and naming may vary depending on the router’s manufacturer and model.

5. Once you find the logs, search for entries related to the date and time of the private browsing session you want to investigate.

6. Note down the domain names or URLs visited during that time.

While Safari doesn’t offer a native way to view private browsing history on an iPhone, the methods outlined in this article provide some options to retrieve this information. You can use third-party tools, check domain names, utilize specialized apps, or explore router logs to access details about private browsing sessions. It’s important to note that privacy is a fundamental right, and accessing someone else’s private browsing history without their consent may be considered a breach of privacy. Always ensure that you have the necessary permissions or legal rights before using any of these methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

To further clarify any doubts you may have, here are answers to some commonly asked questions related to viewing private browsing history on an iPhone:

1. Is it possible to view private browsing history on an iPhone without restoring a backup?

No, without restoring a backup, viewing private browsing history directly within Safari is not possible. The backup restoration method outlined in this article is a workaround to access private browsing history.

2. Are there any apps that can track private browsing history without jailbreaking an iPhone?

Tracking private browsing history without jailbreaking an iPhone is challenging. Most tracking apps require jailbreaking to gain access to this information. Always remember that jailbreaking can void the device’s warranty and may introduce security risks.

3. Can I view private browsing history on someone else’s iPhone without their knowledge?

Accessing private browsing history on someone else’s iPhone without their knowledge or consent is a violation of privacy laws. Always respect others’ privacy and obtain proper authorization before attempting to view their browsing history.

4. Can private browsing be completely hidden on an iPhone?

Private browsing itself cannot be hidden on an iPhone. However, it doesn’t leave behind browsing history, cookies, or other data on the device. It’s designed to enhance privacy and minimize the traceability of online activities.

Remember, it’s essential to respect privacy rights and obtain the necessary permissions before attempting to view private browsing history on an iPhone.

How to track private browsing history on iphone 2023#iphone #iphonetips #privatemode

How can I view private browsing history on iPhone?

To view private browsing history on your iPhone, follow these steps:

Can I recover deleted private browsing history on iPhone?

No, it is not possible to recover deleted private browsing history on an iPhone. Private browsing mode is specifically designed to leave no trace of your browsing history on the device.

Is there any way to track someone’s private browsing history on their iPhone?

No, it is not possible to track someone’s private browsing history on their iPhone. Private browsing is designed to keep your browsing activities private and secure. Even if you have physical access to the device, you won’t be able to retrieve private browsing history.

Are there any third-party apps that allow me to view private browsing history on iPhone?

No, there are no legitimate third-party apps that can provide access to private browsing history on an iPhone. Apple strictly restricts access to private browsing data for security and privacy reasons.

Can I view private browsing history on iPhone through iCloud?

No, viewing private browsing history on iPhone through iCloud is not possible. iCloud backups do not include private browsing history as it is intentionally excluded from the backup process.

Final Thoughts

To view private browsing history on your iPhone, follow these simple steps. Firstly, open the Safari browser and tap on the bookmarks icon at the bottom. Next, select the clock icon which represents the History section. Here, you will find a list of all the websites visited, including those in private browsing mode. Remember that this method only works if the browsing history hasn’t been cleared. By using these steps, you can easily view private browsing history on your iPhone and stay informed about the sites visited.

Similar Posts

Ultimate Guide: How To Block Internet On Iphone

Ultimate Guide: How To Block Internet On Iphone

Quick answer: To block internet on your iPhone, you can use the Screen Time feature, which allows you to set limits on app usage. By applying restrictions to internet browsers and other internet-dependent apps, you can effectively block access to the internet on your device. Introduction: Have you ever found yourself constantly distracted by notifications,…

Silent Screenshot: How To Turn Off Sound On Iphone

Silent Screenshot: How To Turn Off Sound On Iphone

Quick Answer: To turn off the screenshot sound on your iPhone, follow these simple steps. Introduction: Imagine you’re in a quiet room, trying to capture a screenshot on your iPhone discreetly, only to be embarrassed by the loud “click” sound that accompanies it. We’ve all been there, and it can be quite annoying. Luckily, there’s…

Zoom Your Iphone Videos: Ultimate Guide

Zoom Your Iphone Videos: Ultimate Guide

Quick Answer: To zoom in on a video on your iPhone, simply use the pinch gesture on the screen while playing the video. This will allow you to focus on specific details or enlarge the video for a better view. Introduction: Have you ever found yourself struggling to see a certain detail in a video…

Simple Guide: How To Disable Internet On Iphone

Simple Guide: How To Disable Internet On Iphone

Solution: To turn off the internet on your iPhone, follow these simple steps: Introduction: Are you looking for a way to disconnect from the online world on your iPhone? Whether you want to save battery, avoid distractions, or simply take a break from the constant notifications, turning off the internet on your device can be…

How To Watch Tiktok On Iphone Without An Account

How To Watch Tiktok On Iphone Without An Account

Quick answer: To watch TikTok without an account on your iPhone, you can use the TikTok website or third-party apps. Introduction: Want to enjoy the entertaining and addictive content on TikTok without signing up for an account? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll show you how to watch TikTok without an account on…

How To Upload A Pdf On Iphone: A Complete Guide

How To Upload A Pdf On Iphone: A Complete Guide

Quick Answer: To upload a PDF on iPhone, you can use various methods such as using iCloud Drive, emailing the PDF to yourself, or using third-party apps like Dropbox or Google Drive. In this article, we will explore these different methods in detail and guide you step-by-step on how to upload a PDF on your…

Your Guide to Private Browsing in Safari

Private browsing is often misunderstood, but it can be a helpful feature if you know what’s what.

Quick Links

What private browsing does in safari, how to use safari private browsing on iphone and ipad, how to use safari private browsing on a mac, how to disable safari private browsing on iphone and ipad, how to disable safari private browsing on a mac, key takeaways.

  • Private Browsing in Safari hides browsing history, autofill details, downloads, and locks tabs after inactivity.
  • Safari on Mac groups private and non-private tabs, while on iPhone it shows all tabs regardless of mode.
  • To use Private Browsing in Safari, identify it by a dark address bar, "Private" indicator, or "Private" next to the site URL.

Most browsers offer a private browsing mode that aims to keep the websites you view off the record. But what exactly does it do in Safari and how do you get the best out of it?

First and foremost, Private Browsing keeps the website pages you visit out of your History . The aim is to prevent someone else from seeing which pages you have visited if they have access to your phone or computer.

In Safari, Private Browsing does a lot more than just hide URLs. It also:

  • Prevents recent searches from showing up in your history.
  • Stops remembering details you enter in forms for autofill.
  • Keeps downloaded items from appearing in your Downloads list.
  • Locks private tabs after a period of inactivity.
  • Adds tracking and fingerprinting protection.

However, it’s important to note that Private Browsing does not stop you from being tracked altogether. Websites you visit will still be able to use various methods to track you, and will still have access to all data that you send them.

On macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, Safari groups private tabs together, and separates them from non-private tabs. On Mac, each Safari window is either private or non-private, and can have as many tabs as you want.

On iPhone, you can switch between private and non-private modes, each of which shows all tabs belonging to that mode.

You can spot when you’re viewing a private tab with these signs:

  • The address bar has a dark background. This may be less noticeable if you’re using Dark Mode .
  • On Mac, you’ll see a prominent Private indicator in the title bar.
  • On iPhone, you’ll see Private alongside the site URL at the bottom of your screen.

The steps to enter Private Browsing mode are nearly identical on an iPhone and iPad. The only difference is that the tab icon is at the bottom of the screen on iOS and the top on iPadOS.

  • Long-press the tab icon (two overlapping pages) on the bottom-right (iPhone) or top-right (iPad) of your screen.
  • Tap the New Private Tab menu item.
  • If locked, enter your passcode to unlock Private Browsing.

You can enter Private Browsing mode on macOS using either a menu item or a keyboard shortcut:

  • Open the File menu and choose New Private Window .
  • Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Cmd + n .
  • Use the browser as you normally would. Any tabs you open from this window will open in the same window, in private mode.

You may want to prevent users of an iPhone or iPad from using Private Browsing mode at all. To do so:

  • Open the Settings app.
  • Tap on Screen Time .
  • Under RESTRICTIONS , click on Content & Privacy Restrictions .
  • If not already enabled, press the toggle next to Content & Privacy Restrictions to enable.
  • Tap Content Restrictions .
  • Change the Web Content setting to Limit Adult Websites .

The option to enter private mode will now be gone.

On macOS, the wording of certain options differs slightly, but the overall process is near-identical to iOS:

  • Open System Settings via the Apple menu.
  • Click on Screen Time in the left panel.
  • Under the Restrictions section, click on Content & Privacy .
  • Click Content Restrictions .
  • Change the Access to Web Content setting to Limit Adult Websites .

Private Browsing will now be unavailable in Safari, although any existing private windows will stay open.

Of course, anyone can re-enable Private Browsing using the same process, in reverse. However, you can use Screen Time’s Lock Screen Time Settings option to set a passcode and enforce the setting permanently.

How To See Safari Private Browsing History

Copy to Clipboard

  • Software & Applications
  • Browsers & Extensions

how-to-see-safari-private-browsing-history

Introduction

Private browsing has become an essential feature for many internet users seeking to maintain their online privacy. Whether you're using Safari on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, the ability to browse the web without leaving a trace of your activity can be invaluable. However, there are instances where you may need to access your private browsing history for various reasons, such as revisiting a website you previously viewed or tracking down a lost link. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of Safari's private browsing mode and explore the methods for viewing your private browsing history on both Mac and iOS devices.

Understanding the nuances of private browsing in Safari is crucial for effectively managing your browsing history and ensuring that your privacy remains intact. By gaining insight into the functionality of private browsing, you can navigate the digital realm with confidence, knowing that your online activities are shielded from prying eyes. Whether you're a seasoned Safari user or a newcomer to the world of private browsing, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate your private browsing history with ease.

As we embark on this journey through Safari's private browsing landscape, we'll uncover the steps required to access your private browsing history on Mac, iPhone, and iPad. Additionally, we'll provide valuable tips for managing your private browsing history, empowering you to maintain control over your digital footprint while harnessing the full potential of Safari's private browsing mode. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of private browsing history in Safari, empowering you to navigate the digital realm with confidence and privacy.

Understanding Private Browsing in Safari

Private browsing, also known as "Incognito" mode in other browsers, is a feature designed to allow users to browse the internet without leaving a trail of their online activities. When you engage private browsing in Safari, the browser does not store your browsing history, search history, or any information entered in forms. Additionally, any cookies, cache, or temporary files generated during the private browsing session are discarded once the session is closed.

It's important to note that while private browsing prevents the storage of your browsing history on the local device, it does not make you completely anonymous online. Your internet service provider, employer, or the websites you visit can still track your online activities. Private browsing is primarily intended to prevent the storage of browsing data on the local device and to maintain privacy from other users who may have access to the device.

When you open a private browsing window in Safari, it is visually distinguished from a regular browsing window. The browser interface typically adopts a darker theme, and a mask or "privacy" icon may be displayed to indicate that you are in private browsing mode. This visual cue serves as a reminder that your browsing activity during this session will not be saved locally.

One of the key benefits of private browsing in Safari is the ability to conduct research, access sensitive accounts, or explore content without affecting your regular browsing history or stored data. This can be particularly useful when using a shared computer or when you simply want to prevent certain websites from appearing in your browsing history.

It's important to remember that private browsing does not provide complete anonymity or protection from online tracking. If you require a higher level of privacy and security, additional measures such as using a virtual private network ( VPN ) or specialized privacy-focused browsers may be necessary.

By understanding the principles and limitations of private browsing in Safari, you can make informed decisions about when and how to utilize this feature to safeguard your online privacy while navigating the digital landscape.

Viewing Safari Private Browsing History on Mac

Accessing your private browsing history in Safari on a Mac involves navigating through the browser's settings to reveal the hidden records of your private browsing sessions. While private browsing is designed to leave no trace of your online activities, there are methods to uncover the history from these sessions.

Accessing Private Browsing History: To view the private browsing history in Safari on a Mac, you can follow these steps:

  • Open Safari on your Mac.
  • In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on "History."
  • From the drop-down menu, select "Show History." Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Command + Y.

Identifying Private Browsing Sessions: Once the history window opens, you can identify the private browsing sessions by looking for entries with the label "Private Browsing" and the date and time of the session. These entries represent the websites visited during private browsing sessions and are distinct from the regular browsing history.

Browsing and Managing Private History: You can scroll through the private browsing history to revisit specific websites or search for particular entries. Additionally, you have the option to clear individual entries or the entire private browsing history by right-clicking on the desired item and selecting "Delete" or "Clear History" from the "History" menu.

Understanding Limitations: It's important to note that the private browsing history in Safari on a Mac is only accessible from the local device and is not synced across your iCloud account or other devices. This means that the private browsing history can only be viewed on the specific Mac where the private browsing sessions occurred.

By following these steps, you can effectively access and manage your private browsing history in Safari on your Mac, providing you with the ability to revisit websites from previous private browsing sessions and maintain control over your browsing records.

Understanding how to view the private browsing history on your Mac empowers you to navigate your digital footprint with confidence, ensuring that you can access the information you need while maintaining control over your browsing history.

Viewing Safari Private Browsing History on iPhone or iPad

Accessing your private browsing history in Safari on an iPhone or iPad requires a slightly different approach compared to viewing it on a Mac. While private browsing is designed to leave no trace of your online activities, there are methods to uncover the history from these sessions on your iOS device.

To view the private browsing history in Safari on your iPhone or iPad, you can follow these steps:

Accessing Private Browsing History:

  • Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad.
  • Tap the book icon at the bottom of the screen to open the bookmarks menu.
  • From the bookmarks menu, tap the clock icon, which represents your browsing history.

Identifying Private Browsing Sessions:

  • Once the history window opens, you can identify the private browsing sessions by looking for entries with the label "Private Browsing" and the date and time of the session. These entries represent the websites visited during private browsing sessions and are distinct from the regular browsing history.

Browsing and Managing Private History:

  • You can scroll through the private browsing history to revisit specific websites or search for particular entries. Additionally, you have the option to clear individual entries or the entire private browsing history by swiping left on the desired item and tapping "Delete."

Understanding Limitations:

  • Similar to the Mac, the private browsing history on your iPhone or iPad is only accessible from the specific device and is not synced across your iCloud account or other devices. This means that the private browsing history can only be viewed on the specific iPhone or iPad where the private browsing sessions occurred.

By following these steps, you can effectively access and manage your private browsing history in Safari on your iPhone or iPad, providing you with the ability to revisit websites from previous private browsing sessions and maintain control over your browsing records.

Understanding how to view the private browsing history on your iPhone or iPad empowers you to navigate your digital footprint with confidence, ensuring that you can access the information you need while maintaining control over your browsing history.

Tips for Managing Private Browsing History in Safari

Managing your private browsing history in Safari is essential for maintaining control over your digital footprint and ensuring that your online activities remain private. While private browsing is designed to leave minimal traces of your browsing history, there are several tips and best practices that can enhance your ability to manage and safeguard your private browsing history effectively.

Regularly Clear Your Private Browsing History : To maintain privacy and prevent the accumulation of private browsing data, consider clearing your private browsing history regularly. This can be done by accessing the history section in Safari and selecting the option to clear your private browsing history. By doing so, you can ensure that no residual data from private browsing sessions is retained on your device.

Use Private Browsing Wisely : While private browsing can be a valuable tool for maintaining privacy, it's important to use it judiciously. Avoid relying solely on private browsing for sensitive activities, especially if you require a higher level of anonymity and security. Consider utilizing additional privacy measures such as VPNs or specialized privacy-focused browsers when engaging in activities that require enhanced privacy.

Be Mindful of Shared Devices : If you share your Mac, iPhone, or iPad with others, be mindful of the potential impact of private browsing on the overall user experience. While private browsing prevents the storage of browsing history on the local device, it does not prevent websites from tracking your activities or your internet service provider from monitoring your online behavior. Exercise caution and consider the implications of private browsing in shared environments.

Educate Yourself on Privacy Features : Familiarize yourself with the privacy features and settings available in Safari. Explore options for managing cookies, preventing cross-site tracking, and enhancing your overall privacy while browsing. By leveraging the built-in privacy features of Safari, you can augment your privacy protection and minimize the need to rely solely on private browsing.

Consider Alternative Privacy Solutions : In addition to private browsing, consider exploring alternative privacy solutions to augment your online privacy. This may include using privacy-focused search engines, employing ad and tracker blockers, and integrating privacy-enhancing browser extensions. By diversifying your privacy toolkit, you can fortify your online privacy beyond the scope of private browsing.

By implementing these tips for managing your private browsing history in Safari, you can navigate the digital landscape with heightened privacy awareness and control. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to safeguard your online activities while leveraging the benefits of private browsing in Safari.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Crowdfunding
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Digital Banking
  • Digital Payments
  • Investments
  • Console Gaming
  • Mobile Gaming
  • VR/AR Gaming
  • Gadget Usage
  • Gaming Tips
  • Online Safety
  • Software Tutorials
  • Tech Setup & Troubleshooting
  • Buyer’s Guides
  • Comparative Analysis
  • Gadget Reviews
  • Service Reviews
  • Software Reviews
  • Mobile Devices
  • PCs & Laptops
  • Smart Home Gadgets
  • Content Creation Tools
  • Digital Photography
  • Video & Music Streaming
  • Online Security
  • Online Services
  • Web Hosting
  • WiFi & Ethernet
  • Browsers & Extensions
  • Communication Platforms
  • Operating Systems
  • Productivity Tools
  • AI & Machine Learning
  • Cybersecurity
  • Emerging Tech
  • IoT & Smart Devices
  • Virtual & Augmented Reality
  • Latest News
  • AI Developments
  • Fintech Updates
  • Gaming News
  • New Product Launches

Close Icon

Learn To Convert Scanned Documents Into Editable Text With OCR

Top mini split air conditioner for summer, related post, comfortable and luxurious family life | zero gravity massage chair, when are the halo awards 2024, what is the best halo hair extension, 5 best elegoo mars 3d printer for 2024, 11 amazing flashforge 3d printer creator pro for 2024, 5 amazing formlabs form 2 3d printer for 2024, related posts.

How To Turn On Incognito Mode Safari

How To Turn On Incognito Mode Safari

How To See Browser History On iPhone

How To See Browser History On iPhone

How Do You Turn Off Incognito Mode?

How Do You Turn Off Incognito Mode?

How To View Private Browsing History On Safari IPhone

How To View Private Browsing History On Safari IPhone

How To Delete History On IPad Safari

How To Delete History On IPad Safari

How To Delete History On Mac Safari

How To Delete History On Mac Safari

How To Open Private Browser On Safari iPhone

How To Open Private Browser On Safari iPhone

How Do I Get To Incognito Mode

How Do I Get To Incognito Mode

Recent stories.

Learn To Convert Scanned Documents Into Editable Text With OCR

Fintechs and Traditional Banks: Navigating the Future of Financial Services

AI Writing: How It’s Changing the Way We Create Content

AI Writing: How It’s Changing the Way We Create Content

How to Find the Best Midjourney Alternative in 2024: A Guide to AI Anime Generators

How to Find the Best Midjourney Alternative in 2024: A Guide to AI Anime Generators

How to Know When it’s the Right Time to Buy Bitcoin

How to Know When it’s the Right Time to Buy Bitcoin

Unleashing Young Geniuses: How Lingokids Makes Learning a Blast!

Unleashing Young Geniuses: How Lingokids Makes Learning a Blast!

Robots.net

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

How-To Geek

How to use safari private browsing on an iphone or ipad.

Browse the web without leaving a local record on your iPhone or iPad with Private Browsing mode. Here's how to use it.

Quick Links

What is private browsing mode, how to use private browsing mode on iphone, how to use private browsing mode on ipad.

Sometimes, you'd like to check a website without leaving a record of it on your iPhone or iPad. Luckily, Safari includes a Private Browsing mode just for this purpose. Here's how to use it.

While using Private Browsing mode on your iPhone or iPad, Safari will not save your your browsing history, AutoFill form information, changes to cookies, and recent searches when you close each Private Browsing window.

However, Private Browsing mode does not protect your browsing history from the host of your network (such as your business or school), your ISP, or websites that might use your IP address to track you across sites .

Related: The Many Ways Websites Track You Online

First, open Safari. If you don't see the toolbar at bottom of the screen, tap once to reveal it. Then tap the "New Window" button. It looks like two squares overlapping each other.

You'll see a window management screen with a list of thumbnails representing all your open browser windows. On this screen, tap the "Private" button in the lower -left corner.

Private Browsing Mode is now enabled. Tap on the plus (+) button at the bottom of the screen to open a new Private window.

From there, you can type in any address you want in the bar at the top or navigate by tapping on your favorites. In Private mode, you can use Safari as you usual, but it won't keep a local record of what you're doing.

When you're done and want to exit Private Browsing mode, tap the "New Window" button again, then tap the "Private" button in the lower-left corner. You will switch back to non-Private mode.

Keep in mind that switching back does not close your Private Browsing windows. To get rid of your Private Browsing windows, you will need to enable Private Browsing mode again and click the "X" on the upper left corner of each window thumbnail until they all disappear.

Private browsing on the iPad works the same as on the iPhone, but the buttons that enable it are in different locations on the screen. To activate Private Browsing, first launch Safari. If you don't see the toolbar at the top of the screen, tap anywhere once to reveal it. Then tap on the "New Window" button in the upper-right corner.

On Safari's window management screen, tap the "Private" button in the upper-right corner.

After Private Mode is enabled, tap the plus (+) button in the toolbar to add a new window. From there, you can operate Safari as usual.

If you want to exit Private Browsing on an iPad, just tap the new button window again (the two overlapping rectangles) and tap "Private."

But be aware: if you just switch out of Private mode, Safari will keep your Private windows open in the background until you launch Private Browsing mode again. If you want to get rid of all of your Private Browsing windows, switch back to Private mode, tap the New Window button, and close each window with the small "X" in the corner of each thumbnail. Happy browsing!

How To Check Safari History on iPhone and Mac [2024]

Amalia Souris

Recently a man in the EU discovered that his Safari browsing history was included in his Apple data download. After I discussed the issue with him and compared my data download, it turns out he received a lot more information than I did.

After this experience, I decided to research and learn different ways to manage your Safari browser history on your Mac and iPhone. But before we dive into this, what exactly is the Safari Browsing History and why is it so important?

How To Check Safari Search History on iPhone?

1.  Open Safari .

2.  In the Menu bar, look at the lower right corner of the screen and tap the History icon.

Tap the History icon

A Pop-up window showing the list of all the websites you have visited in Safari will appear. Also, If you want to, you can search the history for particular websites, and do this:

History Pop-Up

3. Enter a phrase into the search bar at the top of the screen.

how to search history on private safari

This filters just the websites with that particular keyword or phrase. It is also important to know how to clear your Safari Browsing History.

To do this, follow these simple steps below.

How To Check Safari Search History on Mac?

There are a number of ways you can manage your browser history for Safari on both your macOS and iOS. Here are different techniques and how you can do it. First, let´s consider how to view your browsing history.

Time needed:  1 minute

View Your Safari Browsing History on Mac

Open Safari

Follow the simple steps below to view your browsing history on your iPhone as well.

Delete Your Safari Browsing History on your Mac

To clear your browser history on Mac, follow these straightforward steps:

1.  Open Safari.

2. Open the  History Bar  at the top of the screen.

3.  Click the Show All History tab in the Menu bar or press Command (⌘) + Y in Safari, which will take you to the history view.

Show All History

4.  Select Clear History .

Select Clear History

A pop-up menu will come up and it will allow you to choose how far back you want to clear the existing history. This option lets you choose if you want to clear your history from the last hour, day, week, two weeks, a month, or even for all time.

Clear History

5.  Choose your preferred option and click Clear History .

Clear History Option

Great! You have successfully cleared your Safari browsing history on Mac. Now, Let´s see how we can do this for iPhone as well.

Delete Your Safari Browsing History on iPhone

Clearing your browsing history on your iPhone is also easy. Follow these simple steps too:

1.  Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

Open Settings App

2.  Scroll through the options and click on Safari .

Scroll and Click Safari

3.  Again, scroll and find the Clear History and Website Data option.

Clear History and Website Data

4. Tap Clear History and Data .

Clear History and Data

Yes! You have successfully cleared all Browsing History on Mac and iPhone.

Following these next easy steps to remove all the records of the web pages or sites you have visited over the selected period.

Click History Tab

You can also prevent Safari from tracking your browsing history. Let us quickly dive into this too.

Prevent Safari From Tracking Your Browsing History on Mac

Suppose you prevent Safari from tracking the history of the websites you visited. In that case, it means that Safari cannot save any record of the searches you perform or the websites you visit. How can you do this?

2.  Navigate to click Safari in the Menu Ba r .

3.  Select Preferences from the Menu Ba r .

Click Preferences

4.  Next, Click on the Privacy tab.

Select Privacy Tab

5. You´ll see a box that is next to Prevent cross-site tracking, Check the box.

Check Cross-Site Tracking Box

Let me also walk you through how to do this on your iPhone.

Prevent Safari From Tracking Your Browsing History on iPhone

1.  Open the Settings  app.

Open Settings

2.  Scroll down to the bottom and tap Safari .

Click Safari under Settings

3.  On this page as well, scroll down to the Privacy and Security section .

4.  Toggle on the switch that is next to the Prevent Cross-Site Tracking .

Toggle Prevent Crossing-site

You have successfully prevented Safari from tracking your browsing history both on your Mac and iPhone!

If you prefer additional protection for your browsing activity and for your iPhone and Mac overall, we recommend a dedicated antivirus like Intego Internet Security that can block malicious websites from accessing your data.

That is not all. Sometimes, you might not want your Safari Browser to save your browsing history, website data, or even cookies. Using the private browsing mode is the solution to this.

Keep Your Browsing History Private on Mac

To keep your browsing history private on Mac, you need to use the private browsing mode. Follow these very easy and straightforward steps to do this:

2. Look at the top of your screen, select File , and click New Private Window .

Click File, Select New private Window

A new window will be opened and this will disallow Safari from saving your Browsing or search history.

Private Window

This would also restrict Safari from sending auto-fill information to any website you visit while using the window. You can also do the same on your iPhone.

Keep Your Browsing History Private on iPhone

2.  Tap the Page tab in the bottom right corner of the Safari screen.

Click Page Tab

3. Switch the page option to Private .

Select Private option

4. Finally, Click the ‘+’ sign at the bottom left corner to open a new private browser.

Keeping your browsing history private is very important, but in some situations, you may have visited a website by mistake or you don´t want another person to see that you visited the website. In this situation, the best thing you should do is delete the individual website from your Browsing history. Let me quickly show you how to do this:

Delete Individual Websites From Your Browsing History for Mac

To delete individual items or websites from your Safari Browsing history, follow these very easy steps:

1.  Open your Safari Browser .

2.  Click on the History tab in the Menu bar

3.  Select the Show All History tab

Click Show All History

4.  Find the website you want to remove and Right-click   on it.

Choose Website and Right Click

5.  Select the Delete from History option.

Select Delete

Let me quickly walk you through how to do this on iPhone as well.

Delete Individual Websites From Your Browsing History for iPhone

1.  Open the Safari app.

2.  Click the history tab at the bottom right corner of the screen of the browser.

3.  Look for the website you want to delete from your history and swipe left on it.

Swipe left the website and delete

4.  Finally, Tap the Delete  option.

Yeah! You have successfully deleted individual websites from your browsing history. But if you use Safari on multiple devices of yours such as iPhone, Mac, and maybe your iPad, iCloud sync can help you to keep all your history synchronized across all the devices you own. This means that you can start browsing on your iPhone and continue later on your Mac. Let me quickly show you how to set this up.

Manage Your Safari Browsing History Across Multiple Devices Using iCloud Sync

To use the iCloud sync feature, you must have iCloud enabled on all the devices you own and they all need to be signed in to the iCloud with the same Apple ID.

If you have Safari iCloud syncing turned on and you clear your history, it will also be cleared from all of your other Apple devices with iCloud sync enabled. How can you enable and disable iCloud sync for your Safari browsing history on your Mac and iPhone?

Manage Your Safari Browsing History Across Multiple Devices Using iCloud Sync on Mac

2. Select Safari > Preferences > iCloud Option

4. Check the checkbox next to Safari to make sure that it syncs across all your devices

To sync your browsing history across certain devices, do this:

5. Click on the Manage Devices Button and select the devices you want to sync with.

6. Click Done  

Manage Your Safari Browsing History Across Multiple Devices Using iCloud Sync on iPhone

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

2.  Click on your name at the top of the settings screen.

Click Your iCloud name

3.  Tap the iCloud option.

Select iCloud

4.  Under Apps Using iCloud , select Safari.

5.  Finally, toggle on the switch next to Safari.

Toggle on the switch next to Safari.

Great! You have successfully enabled iCloud sync for Safari browsing history and it will be updated on all your devices using the same Apple ID when you visit new websites or close an existing Safari tab.

Suppose you’ve carefully followed the methods and steps I’ve provided in this step-by-step guide. In that case, you will have a great edge over efficiently managing your Safari browsing history on one or even multiple devices.

Which of these methods worked for you?  Feel free to share your thoughts here in the comment section. Also, if you are having problems with iCloud syncing on your devices, check out our guide for effective solutions.

One thought on “ How To Check Safari History on iPhone and Mac [2024] ”

I like to use imymac——Browser Cleaner to clean up browser traces, historical records, etc.Browser Cleanup lets you clean up junk files, cookies, and history, eliminate deceleration reasons, clear privacy traces to protect your confidential data and more. It is performed on Mac OS and Mac OS X.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • Amalia Souris

how to search history on private safari

Hi there! We use cookies to give you the best site experience.

Privacy Preferences Center

We use cookies along with other tools to help the Clario website load faster. Our cookie files never contain personal data. This means information like your location, email, or IP address always remain unknown to us.

Help us improve your website experience by accepting the use of cookies. You can change your privacy settings whenever you like.

Manage consent

All cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary for enabling basic website functionality (including page navigation, form submission, language detection, post commenting), downloading and purchasing software. The website might malfunction without these cookies.

We stand with Ukraine to help keep people safe. Join us

Table of contents

What is incognito mode?

How can you check browsing incognito history, does incognito mode save your private browsing history, how to delete your incognito history, how to hide your incognito browsing history, how to check your incognito history on any device (and how to delete it).

You take the extra precaution of using an incognito window to search the internet for topics that are personal to you. But have you considered just how important it is to clear that activity? After all, why go through the trouble of using incognito mode to browse the internet if the search history doesn't remain private? Get ready to learn how to check and delete your incognito history so that no one gets their nose in your business.

Get it for iOS , Android

Check incognito history on Windows

See private browsing history on a mac, view incognito history with chrome extensions.

  • Check incognito history on an Android

How to see incognito history on an iPhone

Delete incognito history on windows, delete private browsing history on a mac.

  • Delete incognito history on an Android

Delete private browsing history on an iPhone

Incognito mode is a feature used by browsers, like Chrome, for browsing the internet privately . It has several names, depending on the browser, but they all mean the same thing.  

Below are the various terms used by different browsers:

  • Chrome: Incognito Mode
  • Safari: Private Browsing
  • Firefox: Private Browsing
  • Opera: Private Mode
  • Microsoft Edge: InPrivate Mode

The appeal of using incognito mode is that your device forgets your browsing history, so to speak. That’s why it doesn’t autofill while you type your search terms.  

It also doesn’t save data like annoying cookies and website information and leaves no trace of your online activity. This prevents anyone you share your device with from viewing your browsing history.  

But just how private is the incognito mode? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but not as much as you think. Incognito mode doesn’t hide your IP address or encrypt your outcoming traffic.

Security made easy.

Get leading antivirus, fast VPN, real-time safe browsing and instant ad blocking - all in one app.

That means that your data can be found if someone tries hard enough. Your internet service provider (ISP) can certainly find it, and so can others. This is why you should check your incognito history regularly and clear it to be safe.

You can check your incognito history on any device you use to browse the internet in incognito mode, like Android and other mobile phones. You can also check it on Chrome.

Incognito mode doesn’t save or keep a record of your browsing history. However, it does keep a record of your browsing session in the domain name system, a.k.a. DNS.  

The DNS is responsible for showing you the website you’re trying to access when you type the domain name in your browser.  

It achieves this by communicating with the relevant DNS server and loading the requested website after it receives its IP address.

To speed up the process when you visit the same website in the future, your device will keep a record of the web address in the local storage, which includes domain names and their IP addresses. This is known as DNS cache.  

Anyone using your device can access your DNS cache, which compromises the privacy of your incognito history.

In order to view the DNS cache on your Windows computer or Mac, make sure you have administrator privileges.

Follow the guide below to check your incognito history on a Windows PC :

  • Type cmd in the search bar and select Run as administrator 
  • Enter the command “ipconfig /displaydns” in the window and hit the Enter key
  • Your device will now show you a list of domains you recently visited on all your browsers, including incognito mode. This is your DNS cache history.

The process of checking your DNS cache is slightly more complex on Mac. But if you follow the steps below carefully, you’ll be fine.

  • Go to Finder > Applications > Utilities > Console
  • Choose your device and type the command “any:mdnsresponder” in the search bar . It’s in the top-right corner of the window
  • Click on Start at the top of the screen

search bar and play icon selected in Console on Mac

4. Now go back to Utilities and click on Terminal

5. Type the command “sudo killall -INFO mDNSResponder” and hit Enter

6. Enter your password when prompted to do so, and press Enter again

Terminal window open on Mac

7. Go back to Utilities and click on Console  

8. Your incognito history should now be displayed on the screen.

This method is best for viewing your incognito history while using incognito mode.  

Say, for instance, you’re working on a work or school project. You can start using a Chrome extension before you begin your searches in incognito mode.  

The Chrome extension will save your history until you close the browser after you’ve finished working on the task.

Here’s how to enable Chrome extensions for incognito mode:

  • Go to your browser and type “chrome://extensions”
  • Find the extension you want to use in incognito mode from the list (note: you can’t enable all extensions at once) and click on Details
  • Scroll down and toggle on Allow in Incognito

chrome extension with incognito mode toggled on

Check incognito history on an Android  

As we’ve previously mentioned, you can’t view DNS cache on a mobile device. But that doesn’t mean you can’t access your incognito history at all.  

You can view your incognito history indirectly on Android via a third-party app. It’s common for parental control apps to allow this as they track incognito browsing.

That’s all in an effort to help you keep your child safe by monitoring their browsing activity or habits.  

Some data the apps collect, which you can view, include the following:

  • The websites your child has searched or visited
  • The dates and times those websites were searched or visited
  • The number of times those websites were searched or visited

Below is a list of parental control apps that allow you to view your child’s incognito history:

  • KidsGuard Pro
  • FoneWatcher

These are the more popular apps on the market. Keep in mind that while you can review your child’s incognito history on these apps, you can’t delete it.

As with Android devices, you can’t view incognito history on an iPhone—at least not directly. Perhaps this is to help keep iOS devices secure .

Once again, if you monitor your child’s phone activity through a parental control app, you can use that app to view their incognito browsing history.

Now that we’ve covered how to view incognito history on various devices, let’s move onto the most important part of this process: how to delete it.  

The process of deleting your incognito history is called “flushing”, and it is a crucial step in keeping that information private on any device you use.

Below are the steps to flush your incognito history on the relevant device.

The process of deleting your incognito history is similar to that of viewing it.

  • Type the command “cmd” in the search bar
  • Click on Run as administrator
  • Now type “ipconfig/flushdns” in the window and hit Enter

Start by clicking on Finder , then follow the steps below:

  • Go to Applications , then click on Utilities , followed by Terminal
  • Type the command “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” in the window and press the Enter key
  • Now type your password and hit Enter again.

flushing command on Terminal on Mac

Delete incognito history on an Android  

Grab your Android phone and follow the steps below to remove your incognito browser history.

  • Head to Google Chrome and type the command “chrome://net-internals/#dns” in the website address bar . This will open up the DNS tab.
  • Click on Clear host cache . Doing this will wipe the DNS cache.

Clearing your incognito or private browser history on iPhone is the same as for Android devices (as outlined above). Follow the same steps to delete your incognito history.

But you do have two more options:

  • Restart your iPhone
  • Turn on airplane mode and leave it on for a few seconds

airplane mode enabled on iPhone

Both these methods should automatically flush your DNS cache.  

We live in a world filled with inquisitive people. There’s no telling what they might do or search for on your mobile phone, including checking your incognito history. Of course, the reasons vary, depending on who is viewing it.

As we mentioned earlier in this article, ISPs can track your private browsing history—but they aren’t the only ones.  

Below is a list of parties that would be interested in checking out your incognito browsing history, including the reasons why they would monitor your browser’s DNS requests.

  • Governments

Government entities would view your incognito history for censorship purposes and to ensure that you’re complying with the law as a citizen of a country. This is more common in countries where there are ongoing wars and sometimes in dictator-led countries, too.

It’s no secret that companies collect your data when you browse online. Internet service providers make money by selling your browsing data to those companies, like advertisers. That’s why they’d view your incognito mode activity. However, ISPs would also access your incognito history to throttle your internet bandwidth, however unethical that might be.

Websites track your incognito activity only if you visit them again (more than once) using the same IP address.  

  • Employers and educational institutions

If you’ve ever had a corporate job or used computers at a school, you’ll know that  certain websites are banned. These are typically social media sites and websites with inappropriate content, like pornography. Therefore, employers and schools would monitor your activity in incognito mode to check if you’re visiting any websites you have no business using.

If you want to hide your incognito mode history, be pedantic about deleting it. In fact, delete it at least after every browsing session, using the guide we provided above.

Over and above that, use a virtual private network (VPN). But don’t just use any old VPN—a trusted VPN is the only way.

Clario’s VPN is a safe and reliable VPN service that allows you to browse the internet anonymously, even in incognito mode.

It achieves this by masking your IP address, making it virtually impossible to identify your IP while you browse the internet. This, in turn, protects your data and privacy , which should be your utmost priority if you use the internet.

Start protecting your data and incognito history with Clario’s VPN today:

  • Download the Clario app on your mobile phone or computer
  • Select Browsing , then enable Browsing protection  
  • Now select Allow  
  • Clario will choose a location that has the fastest server. If you want to choose a different one, simply tap the country and choose from the list

Clario VPN mobile screenshots

That’s it! Now you can have the peace of mind knowing that your privacy is protected anytime you browse the internet—even in incognito mode.

By Kateryna Hanko

A tech-inspired writer and content manager with a wide experience in IT and genuine admiration for Apple products.

Keep reading

TikTok Data Collection: What It Knows and Shares About Users

Digital Wellness

How Much Data Do Apps Use? Netflix, Music, and More

Data Protection

Browse the internet anonymously with Clario’s VPN.

How to Turn on Safari Private Browsing on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Turning on Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone is a simple process. Open the Safari app, tap the tabs button (which looks like two overlapping squares), then tap “Private” to turn on Private Browsing Mode. Now, Safari won’t remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your AutoFill information.

After you complete this action, your browsing activity will not be saved in Safari. This means that websites you visit won’t appear in your history, and information entered in forms won’t be saved for AutoFill.

Introduction

In today’s digital age, privacy is a hot commodity. With every click, tap, and scroll, we leave digital footprints that can tell a story about who we are and what we like to do online. That’s why learning how to turn on Safari Private Browsing on your iPhone is essential. Whether you’re entering sensitive information, researching a surprise gift, or simply want to keep your browsing history to yourself, Private Browsing Mode is your go-to feature.

This function is particularly handy for shared devices or when you want to keep your browsing habits under wraps. So, if you’re an iPhone user looking to browse the web without leaving a trace, you’re in the right place. We’ll show you how to enable this feature in just a few easy steps.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Turn on Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone

Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’ll achieve here. By following these simple steps, you’ll enable Private Browsing Mode in Safari, which prevents Safari from keeping track of your browsing history, search records, and AutoFill information.

Step 1: Open the Safari App

Navigate to your iPhone’s home screen and tap on the Safari app to open it.

Opening the Safari app is your gateway to the internet on your iPhone. Make sure you’re connected to the internet before you proceed.

Step 2: Access Your Open Tabs

Look for the tabs button, which resembles two overlapping squares, and tap on it.

This button will show you all your currently open tabs. If you have many tabs open, you may have to swipe left or right to find the “Private” option.

Step 3: Enable Private Browsing

Find the “Private” option at the bottom left of the screen and tap it.

Once you tap “Private,” you’ll notice the color of the browser interface changes, indicating that you’re now in Private Browsing Mode.

Additional Information

Now that you’re all set with Private Browsing Mode on Safari, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while your browsing activity isn’t saved on your iPhone, your internet service provider or employer can still track it. Also, if you download files while in Private Browsing, they’re saved to your phone and visible in the Downloads folder.

Moreover, not all Safari features are available in this mode; for example, you can’t use Handoff to pass browsing activity between devices. Lastly, remember to close all private tabs before returning to regular browsing to maintain your privacy.

  • Open the Safari app on your iPhone.
  • Tap the tabs button to view your open tabs.
  • Tap “Private” to enter Private Browsing Mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does private browsing hide my activity from my employer or internet service provider.

No, Private Browsing only prevents Safari from saving your browsing data on your iPhone. Your activity can still be tracked by your internet service provider or employer.

Will downloads in Private Browsing show up in my regular downloads folder?

Yes, any files you download while in Private Browsing Mode will be saved to your iPhone and visible in the Downloads folder.

Can I use Handoff with Private Browsing?

No, Handoff does not work with Private Browsing tabs, as your browsing activity isn’t saved.

Can websites track me while I’m using Private Browsing?

Some websites may still track your activity using cookies during your Private Browsing session, but they will not be saved once you close the tabs.

How do I turn off Private Browsing?

To exit Private Browsing Mode, open the tabs view, tap “Private” again, and it will switch back to regular browsing.

Turning on Safari Private Browsing on your iPhone is a surefire way to maintain your online privacy. Whether it’s to shop for a surprise, handle sensitive work, or simply because you value your digital privacy, navigating this feature is a breeze. Just remember that while Private Browsing protects your data on your device, it doesn’t make you invisible online. Always exercise caution and use additional privacy tools if needed. Happy private browsing!

Matthew Burleigh Solve Your Tech

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

Share this:

Join our free newsletter.

Featured guides and deals

You may opt out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Related posts:

  • Safari History iPhone: How to See It [2023 Guide]
  • Why Can’t I Create a Private Browsing Tab in Safari on My iPhone?
  • How to Do Private Browsing on iPhone 15: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Turn Off Private Browsing Mode on Your iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • Can I Quickly Close All of My Private Tabs in Safari on My iPhone?
  • iOS 17: How to Close All Private Tabs on iPhone Quickly
  • 15 Ways to Fix Safari Not Working on iPhone in 2023
  • How to Get Out of Incognito Mode on iPhone 14
  • How to Turn On Private Browsing on iPhone 13
  • How to Go Incognito in YouTube on an iPhone
  • How to Delete Autofill Entry on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Close All Private Tabs on iPhone 13
  • 15 iPhone Settings You Might Want to Change
  • How to Delete YouTube History on iPad
  • How to Clear History on iPhone 14
  • How to Do Private Browsing on iPhone 14
  • How to Clear History in Firefox on iPhone: A Simple Guide
  • How to Delete History on iPhone 14: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Clear Visited Pages From an iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • iPhone 15: How to Clear Safari History Quickly and Easily

VPNoverview.com Privacy Anonymous Browsing Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Chris Bluvshtein

Ever wondered what Safari Private Browsing does exactly? Chances are it might not be giving you the level of online privacy you expect. Safari Private Browsing does have some perks, including:

  • Stopping Safari from remembering the websites you’ve visited
  • Not storing any new usernames, passwords, payments cards, and other information you input into private browsing
  • Forgetting any search engine queries you’ve run
  • Allowing you to save money by avoiding marketing cookies that might inflate prices

However, this is pretty much all the privacy that you’ll get with Safari Private Browsing. This incognito mode  won’t cloak your IP address, encrypt your internet traffic, or make you safe on public Wi-Fi . Private browsing still leaves you pretty exposed to a lot of the risks that come with connecting to the internet.

For true online anonymity, you’ll need to use a VPN to change your IP address . We’re big fans of ExpressVPN, one of the fastest VPNs in the industry.

Below, you’ll find more information on how to use Safari Private Browsing on all your Apple devices, as well as more details on how this incognito mode does and doesn’t protect your privacy.

If you use a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, then chances are you’ve encountered Safari Private Browsing before. Whether you’re shopping for a partner’s gift or want to snoop on a long-lost colleague’s LinkedIn, there are many reasons why you might want to use private mode in Safari.

In this article, we answer the question, what is Safari Private Browsing ? We’ll also tell you what this handy tool can’t  do to save you any embarrassment or risk to your online security.

What is Safari Private Browsing?

Use anonymous search engine icon

There’s a little more to this method of browsing than meets the eye, but we’ll go into specifics further down in this article. The point is, for a more private experience, you can use Safari’s incognito mode . You’ll be logged out of all accounts, and Safari won’t autofill user logins, passwords, or payment information. When you turn on private browsing, Safari won’t remember :

  • Your search engine history
  • Webpages you’ve visited
  • Browsing activity or history

You should, however, be aware of a major drawback of this tool on Macs: your browsing activity likely isn’t as hidden as you might think. Websites you visit can still see who you are and what you’re doing . You can read more about this in our general incognito mode article .

With Macs, Private Browsing information is logged in a different place, as well: your Terminal archive.

Beware the Mac Terminal archive

On Macs, there’s something called the Terminal archive , and it’s as scary as it sounds — well, for fans of privacy at least. It’s a treasure trove for snoops. The Terminal archive contains all of the websites you visit , whether you’re using Safari Private Browsing or not. This is because your Mac stores static images and other files when you visit a website for the first time. This makes future visits to these sites and page loading much faster, as your Mac pulls the relevant files from the Terminal archive.

This command-line function also lets you make systemic changes to your Mac . For most users, there’ll never be a need to make any changes in the Terminal archive, and you shouldn’t if you don’t know what you’re doing. You could end up breaking something critical in your computer’s operating system if you tinker with the Terminal.

Screenshot of iOS user interface, Access Terminal app

However, it is good to know that, even when you’re using Safari’s Private Browsing mode, your online activity is logged here.

Make your Safari Private Browsing truly private

By now, you might be asking yourself: how do I clear the cache on my Mac? Well, today’s your lucky day.  Below, you’ll find a brief, step-by-step guide to clearing the cache on a Mac . Just make sure not to do anything else while inside the Terminal.

  • Open “ Finder ,” then search for “ Terminal ” in the search bar.
  • Run the  Terminal  application.
  • Paste the following text into the Terminal and hit enter: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

You may have to enter your Admin password to proceed. This is going to flush the DNS cache.

Remember that you shouldn’t do anything else inside of the Terminal application unless you know what you’re doing. It only takes a short command to nuke files or entire directories in this app forever! So, tread carefully.

Why You Should Use Safari Private Browsing on Macs and iOS

We can hypothesize all we want, but you’ve probably got a good idea of why you  use private browsing. According to a 2018 research study , the most common reason people use private browsing is so others that are using a shared device can’t see what they’re doing. This comes down to protecting two things from other users of your device:

  • Their personal data
  • Their browsing activity

Fortunately, these are two things that Safari Private Mode manages to do wonderfully. Below, you can read more about what else Safari Private Browsing does for you .

Online privacy

Privacy browser icon

  • Your browser won’t remember what websites you’ve visited.  Anything you browse while you’re in private browsing mode won’t be remembered by Safari. So, if you start shopping online for gifts or a product that you find embarrassing, you won’t usually have to worry about your friends or family coming across your browsing history.
  • Safari won’t suggest usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and so   on.  You’ve probably noticed that Safari can remember usernames, passwords, credit cards, and other information when you use it for the first time. If you tell your Mac, smartphone, or tablet to remember those details, they’ll be automatically filled in the next time you visit the website. With Safari Private Mode enabled, these kinds of details won’t be stored: you won’t be prompted to save or autofill them at all.
  • Your search engine queries won’t be remembered . If you’ve been shopping for gifts or trying to self-diagnose, you probably don’t want other users of the computer to see what you’ve searched for . Normally, you’ll see suggested searches popping up in search engines like Google. Based on your past searches and clicks, some links might be colored purple instead of blue, too. In private browsing mode, these won’t appear, nor will any new searches be stored.

How to pay less with Safari Private Browsing

There’s more to private mode options than just online security. You could also save money with Safari Private Browsing, as you won’t be quoted higher prices for products you’ve already viewed. When you visit a website, cookies (small text files) are stored on your computer by your browser.

These kinds of cookies aren’t delicious or rewarding at all. Instead, they allow the site to track you and figure out that you’re interested in, for example, a particular holiday destination. This can result in you seeing higher airfares, hotel booking fees, and more. Just turn on Safari’s Private Browsing to s top cookies from being stored on your browser and avoid hiked prices.

How to Go Incognito on Safari

Incognito mode icon

Safari Private Browsing on a Mac

Using  Safari Private Browsing  on a Mac is simple. If you’re reading this on a Mac, you can skip step one in our step-by-step guide below:

  • Open Safari on your Mac.
  • Click on “ File ” in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
  • Select “ New Private Window .” This will open a new private tab, but you can open as many private tabs in your tab bar as you need.

Screenshot how to open a New Private Window on Safari

It’s that simple. Now, any new tab you open within this new private browsing window will be a private browsing tab. Give it a whirl by opening some new private tabs and navigating to a website you frequently log into. You’ll notice that your username and password aren’t suggested for autofill as they usually would be .

Also, you’ll know that you’re in private browsing, as the URL bar will have a gray background rather than the usual white. Just remember to ignore or close your existing browser window if you had any open. If in doubt, check the background color of the URL bar.

Finally, to  turn off private browsing in Safari , simply click the red cross in the corner of the browser window as you usually would.

Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone

Using  Safari’s private browsing mode on an iPhone or iPad is fairly straightforward and could increase your privacy on an iPhone . If you’re running  iOS 14 or earlier , simply follow the steps below:

  • Open  Safari on your phone.
  • Tap on the “ Tabs ” button. That’s the two small squares in the bottom-right corner of your Safari window on iPhone.
  • A new option called “Private” should appear.
  • Tap “ Private ” and you’ll be taken to a blank screen confirming that you’re using Private Browsing Mode . You’ll notice that it’s using the same gray color scheme as Safari for Mac.
  • Lastly, click on the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a private browsing window.

Screenshots of iOS Access Private Browsing mode

If you’re using  Apple’s latest iPhone update, iOS 15.1.1 , you’ll need to follow a slightly different (and hey, we’ll say it — more confusing) set of steps:

  • Tap on the “ Tabs ” button.
  • Tap where it says “ X Tab(s) ” – this number will reflect the number of windows you have open.
  • Tap “ Private .”
  • Now, you’re in Private Browsing mode and can click the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a new private window.

Screenshots of iOS Access Private Browsing mode latest Apple update

Again, turning off private browsing in Safari for iPhones or iPads is simple. Just press the same “ Private ” button that you used to enable the feature. Don’t forget, if you have multiple private tabs open, they won’t close automatically. Swipe each tab closed before you exit private mode if you want to leave no trace.

How to Set Safari Private Browsing as the Default

If you’d rather always browse privately, you can also set Safari Private Browsing as your default, so that it opens automatically whenever you open a new tab or window. Check out the step-by-step instructions below for a Mac :

  • Make sure your active application is Safari, then select “ Safari ” from your Mac’s toolbar at the top of your screen. Click on “ Preferences ” next, which can also be accessed using the keyboard shortcut “ Command ” + “ , ” (that’s Command, plus a comma).
  • Now, you should see the Privacy window for Safari. Click on the “ General ” tab.
  • Next to “Safari opens with”, select “ A new private window ” from the drop-down list.

While you  can’t automatically use Safari Private Browsing by default on mobile , there are some options for minimizing what’s remembered, stored, or recommended. Here’s how you get there:

  • Open the “ Settings ” application.
  • Scroll down until you see “ Safari ” and tap on that option.

Now, you’ll have the choice to use a number of features. You can:

  • Disable search engine suggestions
  • Disable Safari suggestions specifically
  • Turn off autofill for Safari , either for personal information, payment information, or both
  • Disable “ Favorites “, which you can save in your Safari app’s home screen
  • Turn off “ Frequently Visited Sites “, which appear below your favorites

In this menu, you can also  prevent cross-site tracking and  block all cookies on the websites that you visit. In the event that you forget to launch Safari Private Browsing, these options should give you at least a little more privacy whenever you go online.

Is Safari Private Browsing Safe?

Question mark over padlock icon

That last risk is surprisingly common on public Wi-Fi networks  too. Bear in mind that private browsing doesn’t protect you against malware (malicious software) either, nor does it protect your payment information or other personal details . For true online anonymity and to  improve your online security , you should give serious thought to using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) .

How to use a VPN with Safari Private Browsing

Using a VPN along with Safari Private Browsing should give you the online security you’re looking for. In addition to avoiding any logged browsing history or search history , you’ll be much harder to track and enjoy greater online anonymity. You can check out the many advantages of a VPN for more information. Want to get started right away? The following steps will only take a few minutes of your time:

  • Choose a VPN provider and create an account. We recommend checking out our list of the best VPNs if this is new ground for you. Alternatively, ExpressVPN is a market-leading VPN provider that we’re always happy to recommend.
  • Download and install  the VPN software onto your Mac. You can also download ExpressVPN for mobile on your iPhone. Other premium providers like NordVPN, CyberGhost, and Surfshark all offer really slick mobile apps for iOS, too.
  • Log into your account , either in the desktop software or the mobile app.
  • Choose a VPN server in a country of your choice. If you’re purely interested in online security, then the location you choose isn’t  too  important (though some will be faster than others). However, if you want to  save money on subscriptions , for example, you should give it some more thought.
  • Connect to the VPN server . When you connect, you’ll be  changing your IP address to mirror the VPN server’s IP. It’s safe, legal ( in most countries ), and best of all, it’ll give you far greater online security than simply using Safari Private Browsing alone.

Safari Private Browsing is perfect for hiding those Christmas or birthday purchases from your family before the big day. It’s also a great way to save money on flights, hotels , or other purchases. However, it won’t do much for your online security. If you want  truly private browsing , then use a VPN along with Safari private mode.

Interested in exploring other private browsers? Check out these articles below:

  • How Anonymous Is DuckDuckGo?
  • Is Vivaldi Browser Safe?
  • How to Set Up Firefox as an Anonymous Browser

Do you want to know how to enable private browsing on Safari? Are you wondering how much privacy Safari Private Browsing actually gives you? You’ll find these answers and more in our frequently asked questions below.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for Mac, follow these simple steps:

  • Make sure Safari is the active application that you’re using.
  • Click on  File in the menu bar along the top of the screen.
  • Click on  New Private Window to switch to private browsing mode.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for iPhone or iPad, the process is much the same:

  • Open the  Safari application.
  • Tap on the  Tabs icon (the two small squares in the lower-right corner of your screen).
  • Tap on  Private to switch to private browsing.
  • Click on the small  + (plus) icon to open a new private browsing tab.

Check out our full article for more information on Safari Private Browsing.

No. Safari Private Browsing, like any browser’s private mode, won’t protect you against a lot of online threats. Your IP address will still be visible to many third-party individuals and organizations. For example, your ISP will know what websites you’ve visited, and hackers could determine your location using your IP (though some private modes do limit location tracking). For true online privacy and anonymity, you’re safer using a VPN like ExpressVPN .

With Private Browsing, it’s more difficult for websites to track you, since cookies are cleared the moment you close the browser — but it’s not impossible. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider), employer, school, or college could still see your internet history . That is, unless you use a VPN along with the incognito mode.

Yes. The owner of an internet connection can absolutely check up on your browsing session if they have the right technical knowledge. Some routers can be set up to remember all URLs a device accesses. So, if you’re trying to fly under your parents’ radar, for example, they could potentially bust you using the family router, even if you’re exclusively using private browsing modes.

For true anonymity , you’ll want to use a VPN. With a VPN connection, all of your internet traffic is encrypted, which gives you far better anonymity and privacy than using private browsing on its own.

Chris Bluvshtein

Chris Bluvshtein Author

Senior journalist.

Chris is a tech journalist with many years’ experience covering online privacy and cybersecurity. He’s also a published author and works as a Product Manager for some of the most innovative software development companies.

Share this article

More articles from the anonymous browsing section.

Kanary Review Featured Image

Kanary Review (2024): A Cheap and Secure Data Removal Service

OneRep Review Featured Image

OneRep Review (2024): Can OneRep Protect Your Private Data?

The Best Data Removal Service for Personal Information Removal Featured

The Best Data Removal Services (Personal Information Removal Made Easy)

Hi Chris , I’m finding while using private mode in safari my sound is being cut out and I have not been able to find a way to reconnect it. I use it on a iPad with a vpn and trend anti spam for protection as much as it can in private mode. I have not been able to find any reason as to why this is happening.

Hey Wayne, I've done a bit of digging, and I've found something that might be worth a try. It seems that recent versions of Safari have a built-in feature that can prevent audio from playing when you visit a website; it's enabled by default too. Give this a try and let me know if the issue goes away: 1. Open the Safari menu and click preferences 2. Click on the websites tab 3. Look for the setting: "When visiting other websites", which has a drop-down selection beside it 4. Change this setting so that it allows websites with media to play sound. You can alternatively add individual websites to this list if you'd rather have control over which ones can play sound by default.

Hi Chris Just tried your Terminal Commands, I am running macOS Monterey The Terminal Commands Below are not working dscacheutil -cachedump -entries Host dscacheutil -flushcache

You're right. Thank you for pointing it out to us! There is a new terminal command you'll now need instead: "sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder". We've adjusted the article to reflect this. Hope this helps!

Looking for a VPN?

Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services. Extensively tested by our experts.

Looking for a VPN?

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Internet Browsers
  • Safari Browser

2 Easy Ways to Check Your Safari Search History

Last Updated: January 17, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly . Rain Kengly is a wikiHow Technology Writer. As a storytelling enthusiast with a penchant for technology, they hope to create long-lasting connections with readers from all around the globe. Rain graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Cinema. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 158,260 times. Learn more...

Do you need to check your Safari browser history? In a few simple steps, you can easily view all the websites you accessed in the past. You can also search for specific websites in your history and clear any website data you don't want. This wikiHow will teach you how to view and delete your Safari history on iPhone, iPad, and macOS.

Things You Should Know

  • On iPhone and iPad, you can click the book icon, then the clock icon to find your Safari history.
  • On macOS, you can click the "History" tab, then "Show History".
  • You can search for specific websites and clear your history data.

Using iPhone and iPad

Step 1 Open Safari.

  • If needed, you can change your General Settings .

Step 2 Tap the open book icon.

  • If you're signed in with the same Apple ID to you use to log into your Mac, your Mac's Safari history will appear in this list as well.

Step 4 Use the search bar to find specific websites.

  • You may have to swipe down on the History page to find it.
  • The results will load as you type.

Step 5 To clear your history, tap

  • Tap a time period to delete the history from just that time period. To delete the entire log, select All time .
  • You can also swipe left on individual websites in your history, then click Delete .

Using macOS

Step 1 Open Safari on your Mac.

  • Be sure to update Safari.

Step 2 Click the History menu.

  • If you're logged into the computer with the same Apple ID you use on your iPhone or iPad, you'll also see sites you've visited on those devices.

Step 4 Use the search bar to find specific websites.

  • A list of matching results from your history will appear. Click a site to load it in Safari.

Step 5 To clear your history, click the

  • Select a time frame from the drop-down menu, then click Clear History .
  • You can also delete cookies from Safari .

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

Disable Private Browsing on iPhone

  • ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/search-your-browsing-history-ibrw1114/mac
  • ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201265

About This Article

Rain Kengly

iPhone/iPad: 1. Open Safari . 2. Tap the book icon. 3. Tap the clock button. macOS: 1. Open Safari . 2. Click History . 3. Click Show All History . Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Is this article up to date?

how to search history on private safari

Featured Articles

Maintain a Work Life Balance

Trending Articles

Confront a Cheater

Watch Articles

Make Sugar Cookies

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help:

Tech troubles got you down? We've got the tips you need

Clear the history, cache, and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

Learn how to delete your history, cookies, and cache in Settings.

Delete history, cache, and cookies

Clear cookies and cache, but keep your history, delete a website from your history, block cookies, use content blockers.

Go to Settings > Safari.

Tap Clear History and Website Data.

ios-17-iphone-14-pro-settings-safari-clear-history-and-website-data

Clearing your history, cookies, and browsing data from Safari won't change your AutoFill information.

When there's no history or website data to clear, the button to clear it turns gray. The button might also be gray if you have web content restrictions set up under Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time .

To visit sites without leaving a history, turn Private Browsing on .

Go to Settings > Safari > Advanced > Website Data.

Tap Remove All Website Data.

When there's no website data to clear, the button to clear it turns gray. The button might also be gray if you have web content restrictions set up under Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time .

Open the Safari app.

Bookmarks button

Tap the Edit button, then select the website or websites that you want to delete from your history.

Tap the Delete button.

A cookie is a piece of data that a site puts on your device so that site can remember you when you visit again.

To block cookies:

Go to Settings > Safari > Advanced.

Turn on Block All Cookies.

ios-17-iphone-14-pro-settings-safari-block-all-cookies

If you block cookies, some web pages might not work. Here are some examples:

You will likely not be able to sign in to a site even when using your correct username and password.

You might see a message that cookies are required or that your browser's cookies are off.

Some features on a site might not work.

Content blockers are third-party apps and extensions that let Safari block cookies, images, resources, pop-ups, and other content.

To get a content blocker:

Download a content blocking app from the App Store.

Tap Settings > Safari > Extensions.

Tap to turn on a listed content blocker.

You can use more than one content blocker. If you need help, contact the app developer .

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

how to search history on private safari

Related topics

how to search history on private safari

Explore Apple Support Community

Find what’s been asked and answered by Apple customers.

how to search history on private safari

Contact Apple Support

Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

Sign up for our daily newsletter

  • Privacy Policy
  • Advertise with Us

How to Check and Search Safari History on Mac

Anya Zhukova

Browsing history is one of the essential features of Safari that keeps a detailed record of your online activity, allowing you to quickly access previously visited websites and track your digital footprint. Whether you need it for research or personal security, learning how to manage Safari’s browsing history is essential for every Mac user. Follow this guide to learn how to check, search and clear your Safari browsing history on a Mac.

How to Check Safari Browsing History on a Mac

How to manage browsing history in safari.

Safari for Mac offers several different methods to access your browsing history. You can do it via the Safari menu, toolbar, or a keyboard shortcut.

Use the Safari Menu to Access Browsing History

The easiest way to check browsing history in Safari is from the web browser’s menu. Follow the steps below to check Safari history on your Mac.

Launch the Safari browser on your Mac. Find the ribbon menu in the upper-left corner of your screen, and select History .

Open the Safari Browsing History Menu

You’ll get access in the drop-down menu to a list of all the websites you’ve previously visited.

If you want a more detailed view, click on Show All History at the top of the drop-down menu. This opens a dedicated browsing history window where you can search for specific websites and delete individual entries.

Safari browser menu - Show All History

View Browsing History in the Safari Toolbar

If you often need to check or search Safari history, customize your Safari toolbar, and add a button to quickly access your browsing history.

Open the Safari browser on your Mac. From the ribbon menu, select View -> Customize Toolbar .

Safari ribbon menu - Customize Toolbar

Drag History from the options and place it in any place you would like on the Toolbar.

Safari Customize Toolbar Add History to Toolbar

Select Done in the bottom right of the window.

If you want to change the position of this button later or delete it from the toolbar altogether, follow the same steps and drag the button back to the items menu.

Use a Keyboard Shortcut to Check Safari History

For those who prefer using keyboard shortcuts, you can use a shortcut to open and check Safari history.

When you have a Safari window open, press the Command + Y keys to open your browsing history in a new window.

Along with viewing your browsing history, you can also keep your history organized.

Search Your History for Specific Websites

It’s easy to locate a particular website in your Safari history. When you open your browsing history, use the Search bar in the upper-right corner of the window to search within the list of your previously visited websites.

Enter the website’s name or any related keywords, and Safari will display all relevant results.

Clear Safari Search History

See something you don’t like in your browsing history? Or maybe it’s something you want to hide from prying eyes, should someone else access the list? You can delete specific entries from Safari history.

Open your browsing history window in Safari on either your Mac, right-click on the website entry you wish to delete, and select Delete .

You can also clear your entire browsing history or auto-delete it instead.

Open your browsing history window in Safari on your Mac. Look for the Clear History or Clear option at the bottom of the screen and select it. Select the time range of your browsing history that you want to clear (e.g., last hour , today , today and yesterday , or all history ).

Safari Clear Browsing History

Confirm your selection by clicking on Clear History or Clear Browsing History .

Improve Your Safari Experience

Mastering your Safari browsing history is essential for efficient web browsing and maintaining privacy on your Mac. With the various methods outlined here, you can easily access, search, and clear your browsing history to suit your needs. For those looking to optimize the Safari experience and protect their privacy, we recommend taking the next step and learning how to create Safari profiles on Mac, iPhone and iPad .

Image credit: Unsplash . All screenshots by Anya Zhukova.

Our latest tutorials delivered straight to your inbox

Anya Zhukova

Anya is a bilingual writer who has spent over 8 years writing about all things tech. She's contributed to high-traffic tech publications such as MakeUseOf, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, and Switching to Mac. Anya's always looking for new ways to make life easier using technology. When she's not writing, you can find her shredding fresh pow on a snowboard, or exploring new mountain bike trails.

Open Folder Mac Terminal Featured 2

  • a. Send us an email
  • b. Anonymous form
  • Buyer's Guide
  • Upcoming Products
  • Tips / Contact Us
  • Podcast Instagram Facebook Twitter Mastodon YouTube Notifications RSS Newsletter

Separate Your iPhone Browsing Habits With Safari Profiles

With iOS 17 , Safari gained a feature called Profiles that's designed to help you separate your browsing sessions into categories like Work, School, Personal, or custom categories that you find useful to have siloed. This article explains how to use it on iPhone .

iOS 17 General Safari Feature

Each profile gets its own icon and silos all of your history, Tab Groups, Favorites, Private Browsing tabs, and cookies. You can even assign specific third-party extensions to different profiles to optimize your browsing experience based on the task at hand. Here's how to create your own profile in Safari.

How to Create a Safari Profile

  • Open the Settings app on you ‌iPhone‌ or iPad .
  • Scroll down to Safari .
  • Under the "Profiles" section, tap New Profile .
  • Under "Settings," choose a Favorites folder (or a new folder) and select which tabs (if any) that you want to be open when you're using the profile with the Open New Tabs option.

safari

When you create a new profile, your device will automatically generate a "Personal" profile to differentiate other browsing sessions conducted outside of the profile you created.

Both profiles and additional ones you create can be edited in the same section of the Settings app. When editing an existing profile, you can also enable any Safari extensions you have installed on your device with the Manage Extensions option, as well as get rid of the profile using the Delete Profile option.

How to Switch Between Profiles in Safari

  • In Safari, tap the Tabs icon with two overlapping squares.
  • Tap the middle icon to bring up the active profile's menu.
  • Tap the Profile option to change which profile is active.

safari

The Safari Profiles feature is available in ‌iOS 17‌, iPadOS 17 and macOS Sonoma , as well as being part of Safari 17 for macOS Monterey and macOS Ventura . Any profiles you create will be synced across devices logged into the same Apple ID .

Get weekly top MacRumors stories in your inbox.

Popular Stories

iOS 18 Apple Music Messages and Notes Feature 1

iOS 18 Rumored to Add New Features to These 16 Apps on Your iPhone

5

Apple Event This Week Expected to Last 'About 35 Minutes'

top stories 4may2024

Top Stories: Apple Event Preview, iPad Pro With M4 Chip Rumor, New Beats Headphones, and More

iOS 17 All New Features Thumb

Apple Says iOS 17.5 Coming 'Soon' With These New Features for iPhones

2024 Apple Watch Pride Face Feature

Apple Unveils 2024 Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop Band and Watch Face

Next article.

iPhone 17 Pro Max Smaller Dynamic Island Feature 1

Our comprehensive guide highlighting every major new addition in iOS 17, plus how-tos that walk you through using the new features.

ios 17 4 sidebar square

App Store changes for the EU, new emoji, Podcasts transcripts, and more.

iphone 15 series

Get the most out your iPhone 15 with our complete guide to all the new features.

sonoma icon upcoming square

A deep dive into new features in macOS Sonoma, big and small.

ipad pro 2022 blue square

Revamped models with OLED displays, M4 chip, and redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory.

ipad air 12 9 square

Updated 10.9-inch model and new 12.9-inch model, M2 chip.

wwdc 2024 upcoming square

Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference will kick off with a keynote on June 10.

ios 18 upcoming square

Expected to see new AI-focused features and more. Preview coming at WWDC in June with public release in September.

Other Stories

Apple iPad Air and iPad Pro 11 inch and 13 inch Feature 1

3 hours ago by Tim Hardwick

safari icon blue banner

1 day ago by Tim Hardwick

ipados 17

1 week ago by Tim Hardwick

iPad Air 12

2 weeks ago by Joe Rossignol

General Apps Reddit Feature

2 weeks ago by MacRumors Staff

Next Level Incognito: Private Browsing on Safari

how to search history on private safari

In today's era of technology, safeguarding privacy is of utmost importance. It is essential to understand how to navigate the internet. Fortunately, Safari, the web browser developed by Apple, includes a feature known as Private Browsing, which assists users in browsing the web with increased privacy protection. 

What exactly does Private Browsing entail on Safari? How does it differ from other privacy modes, such as Incognito? How to turn off incognito on iPhone and how to turn on incognito mode on iPhone? Let's explore the realm of Safari browsing and discover some tips for utilizing it effectively on both iPhone and Mac devices.

What is Safari?

Apple’s Safari browser is well known for its integration and user-friendly design, on all Apple devices. It offers speed, efficiency, and a range of features to improve the browsing experience. With a user interface and strong security measures, Safari ensures privacy and data protection for its users.

Safari's sleek design and easy connection with Apple services create an experience across all devices. Its reputation for speed and security makes it a popular choice among users who value safety. As the default browser, on Apple products, Safari continues to improve by adding features to provide a secure browsing experience.

What is Private Browsing on Safari?

Safari's Private Browsing feature is well known for boosting user privacy while browsing the web. When Private Browsing Safari mode is activated, Safari incognito mode ensures that no browsing history, cookies, or other website data are stored. This allows users to explore the internet without leaving any traces of their online activities on the device, which is particularly useful in situations where privacy is essential, such as when using a public computer or accessing sensitive information on a shared network.

In addition to preventing the storage of browsing history and cookies, Private Browsing mode in Safari also blocks tracking cookies and ads that could compromise user privacy. By providing a separate browsing session apart from the main browser window, Private Browsing Safari offers users a secure and private environment for web surfing. Whether users are shopping, conducting research, or simply browsing online, the assurance provided by Private Browsing Safari mode ensures that their personal information and online activities remain shielded from unwanted eyes.

how to search history on private safari

The Benefits of Using Safari Private Browsing

Safari Private Browsing function provides users numerous advantages that enhance the safety and security of their browsing. A key benefit is the option to surf the internet without leaving behind any digital traces. Safari incognito mode ensures that browsing history, cookies, and other site data are not stored on the device, helping users protect their privacy and remain anonymous, especially when dealing with sensitive information or using public devices. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize discretion and wish to avoid others from peeking into their browsing history or monitoring their online actions.

Moreover, Safari's Private Browsing mode protects users against specific online tracking and personalized advertising types. Through the prevention of cookies and other tracking tools, Private Browsing enables users to evade tracking between websites and stops advertisers from creating detailed profiles of their online actions. This improves privacy and decreases the chance of facing intrusive advertisements and personalized marketing strategies while surfing the internet. Those worried about online privacy and data safety can find a proactive solution in Safari's Private Browsing feature to minimize the dangers of online tracking and data gathering.

Additionally, the connection between Safari and additional Apple services and functions adds to the advantages of Safari incognito mode. Using tools such as iCloud Keychain for protecting passwords and Intelligent Tracking Prevention for blocking cross-site tracking, Safari offers users a full range of resources to protect their online privacy and security . Using Safari's overall approach to privacy across its ecosystem, users can have a smooth browsing experience while still having authority over their personal information and digital identity.

Is it Better than Incognito Mode?

Comparing Private Browsing on Safari to Incognito Mode in other browsers reveals nuanced differences that may influence users' preferences. While both features serve the primary purpose of enhancing privacy and security during browsing sessions, Safari's implementation of Private Browsing offers unique advantages tailored to the Apple ecosystem. 

One notable difference is Safari's seamless integration with other Apple services, allowing users to leverage features such as iCloud Keychain for password management and Safari's Intelligent Tracking Prevention for enhanced privacy protection.

Moreover, Safari's commitment to privacy extends beyond individual browsing sessions, with features like Intelligent Tracking Prevention working in the background to block trackers and prevent cross-site tracking across multiple browsing sessions. This holistic approach to privacy sets Safari's Private Browsing apart from standard Incognito Mode offerings, as it actively protects users' online activities beyond the confines of a single browsing session.

While the decision between Private Browsing on Safari and Incognito Mode iPhone ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs, Safari's integration with the Apple ecosystem and proactive privacy measures position it as a compelling choice for users seeking enhanced privacy and security while browsing the web.

how to search history on private safari

How to Go Incognito on iPhone?

Wondering how to go incognito on iPhone? Here's how you can turn your smartphone into an incognito iPhone:

If you are using iOS 17:

  • Open the Safari browser;
  • Tap the tabs button (It looks like two overlapping squares);
  • Swipe to the Private tabs and open the tab you wish (or press the plus symbol for a new private tab Safari)

how to search history on private safari

If you are using iOS 16 or older versions:

  • Tap the tabs button or Start Page to show grouped tabs;
  • Tap Private and then Done.

how to search history on private safari

How to Go Incognito on Mac?

If you're using a laptop and want to go incognito on Mac, follow these steps to find out how to open private browser on Mac:

  • Open Safari on your Mac by pressing on the Safari icon.
  • Click on "File" in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
  • Select "New Private Window" from the drop-down menu.
  • A new private window Safari will open, indicating that you're in Private Browsing mode.

how to search history on private safari

How to Turn off Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad?

If you want to turn off incognito mode on iPhone or turn off private browsing on iPad, simply follow these steps:

  • Open Safari on your device.
  • Tap the Tabs icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
  • Tap "Private" to switch back to regular browsing mode.
  • You will exit incognito mode, and your browsing session will now be normal. Safari will resume storing your browsing history and other data.

how to search history on private safari

With these steps, you can easily turn off “incognito” iPhone browsing.

How to Turn off Private Browsing on Mac?

Turning off Private Browsing on your Mac is just as easy:

  • In Safari, click on "File" in the menu bar (located in top left corner).
  • Select "New Window" to open a regular browsing window.
  • Close any existing Private Browsing windows or tabs.
  • You're now back to browsing in regular mode on your Mac.

Can Private Browsing Be Traced on iPhone?

Using Private Browsing on Safari gives users a bit of privacy since it doesn't keep a record of their browsing history and cookies locally on the device. However, it's important to understand that it doesn't guarantee complete anonymity. Even though local data isn't stored, certain parties like internet service providers (ISPs) or network administrators can still monitor what users do online. So, while Private Browsing Safari stops the browser from saving visited websites, it doesn't make users completely invisible online.

Moreover, websites have ways to track users using things like IP addresses and device identifiers. Although private mode Safari can stop websites from seeing browsing history and cookies from the current session, they can still gather other identifying information. Therefore, while using Private Browsing on an iPhone offers some privacy protection, it's crucial for users to be careful and mindful of their online actions, especially when dealing with sensitive data on public networks .

How to Improve Privacy Even More?

Apart from the default privacy options in Safari, users have the opportunity to increase their online privacy by taking extra measures. Utilizing browser add-ons or extensions can be a useful approach to enhancing privacy. Ad blockers, for instance, are effective in stopping bothersome ads and tracking scripts from appearing on websites, which helps reduce the chances of being tracked online and enhances the speed and efficiency of browsing.

Moreover, it is advisable to utilize a virtual private network (VPN) to secure your internet connection and safeguard your digital actions. With a VPN, your online data will be directed through a secure server, concealing your IP address and deterring outside entities from tracking your web usage. This precaution is particularly crucial when accessing unsecured networks or public Wi-Fi, as there is an elevated threat of data interception and monitoring. By encrypting your digital traffic through a VPN, you can experience heightened levels of privacy and protection online, irrespective of where you are or the type of network you are connected to. You can even level it up with a decentralized VPN, such as Mysterium VPN , for even more security. Since it is decentralized, unlike other VPN providers, server-wide breaches become impossible.

Enhancing privacy on the internet also involves maintaining strong password practices. Employing a reliable password manager enables users to create and securely store distinct, intricate passwords for every online account, decreasing the likelihood of data breaches and unauthorized entry. Furthermore, activating two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever feasible provides an added level of protection to online accounts, offering further defense against unauthorized access to sensitive information. Through the implementation of effective password management techniques and the integration of supplementary security measures such as 2FA, individuals can greatly boost their online privacy and defend themselves against cyber risks.

To sum up, using Private Browsing Safari gives users a convenient way to surf the internet while ensuring privacy and security. Whether you're on an iPhone or Mac, enabling Private Browsing is simple and fast, giving you peace of mind while online, especially on unsecured connections. However, it's important to note that although Private Browsing Safari can boost your privacy, it's not a foolproof method for anonymous browsing. Be cautious and mindful of your online actions, especially when handling sensitive data on public networks. With Safari's Private Browsing function, you can enhance your online privacy while enjoying a smooth browsing experience on your Apple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Latest post.

how to search history on private safari

United by Music: When and Where to Watch Eurovision 2024

how to search history on private safari

What Are “Spam Risk” Calls and Why They Are Dangerous

how to search history on private safari

Plausible Deniability in Cybersecurity: All You Need to Know

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Check this box if you agree to receive infrequent emails & promotions from the Mysterium VPN team

IMAGES

  1. How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode and Delete Your Browsing

    how to search history on private safari

  2. How to Use Safari's Private Browsing and Delete Your History !!!!

    how to search history on private safari

  3. How to Manage Your Browsing History in Safari

    how to search history on private safari

  4. How To Check Browsing History in Safari

    how to search history on private safari

  5. How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode and Delete Your Browsing

    how to search history on private safari

  6. How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode and Delete Your Browsing

    how to search history on private safari

VIDEO

  1. How to Delete/Clear Safari Search History on iPhone Tutorial (2024) Full Guide Simple process

  2. How to delete safari search history #usefultips #shorts

  3. How To Clear Private Browsing History in Safari on iPhone

  4. How to delete Search history on safari 

  5. How To Delete/ Clear Search History On Safari on iPhone

  6. How to view history in safari [easy]

COMMENTS

  1. How to Check Private Browsing History on iPhone

    Open the Safari app on your iPhone. Inside Safari, swipe up from the bottom Tab Bar until you see all your open tabs on the screen. When you see the active tabs on your screen, tap on the Private tab from the bottom left corner or swipe from left to right on the bottom bar. This will open the Private Browsing screen which may show the ...

  2. Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPhone

    In iOS 17. Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap the Tabs button. Swipe to the Private tab group button, then tap the tab that you want to open. For additional privacy, you can choose to lock Private Browsing when you're not using it. When you lock your device, your private tabs in Safari will also lock. Then, when you unlock your device again, just ...

  3. Browse privately in Safari on iPhone

    Open the Safari app on your iPhone. Tap . Swipe right on the tab bar at the bottom of the screen until Private Browsing opens, then tap Unlock. To exit Private Browsing, tap , then swipe left to open a Tab Group from the menu at the bottom of your screen. The websites you have open in Private Browsing stay open, and Private Browsing locks.

  4. Step-By-Step Guide: How To View Private Browsing History On Iphone

    Open Safari on your iPhone. 2. Tap on the address bar at the top of the screen. 3. You will see a list of frequently visited websites. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and tap on "Show All History.". 4. Here, you can see a list of domains visited during both regular and private browsing sessions. 5.

  5. Browse privately in Safari on Mac

    In the Safari app on your Mac, choose Safari > Settings, then click General. Click the "Safari opens with" pop-up menu, then choose "A new private window.". If you don't see this option, choose Apple menu > System Settings, click Desktop & Dock in the sidebar, then turn on "Close windows when quitting an application" on the right.

  6. How to use Private Browsing in Safari on iPhone

    When you use Private Browsing, Safari won't remember your search history, the pages you visit, or your AutoFill information. Private Browsing also blocks som...

  7. Your Guide to Private Browsing in Safari

    Private Browsing in Safari hides browsing history, autofill details, downloads, and locks tabs after inactivity. Safari on Mac groups private and non-private tabs, while on iPhone it shows all tabs regardless of mode. To use Private Browsing in Safari, identify it by a dark address bar, "Private" indicator, or "Private" next to the site URL.

  8. How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode

    Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad, tap the Pages icon (consisting of two squares) to bring up the open tabs view, and then tap the profile icon, centered at the bottom of the screen. Tap Private ...

  9. How to use Private Browsing in Safari on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

    Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap and hold the Tabs button. Tap [number] Tabs in the pop-up menu. You may also exit out of incognito mode in Safari on iOS 17 by completing these steps: Open Safari on your iPhone. Tap the Tabs button. Tap [number] Tabs or Start Page to show the Tab Groups list. Tap Private, then tap Done.

  10. How to Use Private Browsing in Safari on Mac, iPhone, or iPad

    Open the Safari app on your iPhone or iPad, then tap the Tabs button in the bottom-right corner to view your open pages. In the bottom-left corner, tap Private to enable private browsing mode. Then tap the Add ( +) button to open a private browsing window. Tap the Tabs button in the bottom-right corner.

  11. How to View Safari Private Browsing History on Mac

    Open the Safari app on your Mac. Click File > New Private Window. Browse as you normally would. Note that Private Browsing mode in Safari will have a dark search field as compared with the light ...

  12. How to Manage Your Browsing History in Safari

    Here's how to manage Safari's history on a Mac: Open the Safari browser and select History in the menu bar located at the top of the screen. You'll see a drop-down menu with the titles of the web pages you visited recently. Select a website to load the respective page or select one of the previous days at the bottom of the menu to see more options.

  13. Safari Private Browsing History Is Not Forgotten After All

    For Mac users of Safari: Open Finder. Click the "Go" menu. Hold the option key and click "Library" when it appears. Open the Safari folder. Inside the folder, find the "WebpageIcons.db ...

  14. How to use private browsing in Safari on an iPhone, iPad, and Mac

    Here's how to open private browsing on Safari for iPhone and iPad: For iOS17: Open Safari. Tap the "Tabs" icon (a square overlapping another square). Swipe right until you see the "Private" tab. Tap the + icon to open a tab and start browsing in private mode. For older iOS versions: Open Safari. Tap on "Tabs.".

  15. How To See Safari Private Browsing History

    Viewing Safari Private Browsing History on iPhone or iPad. Accessing your private browsing history in Safari on an iPhone or iPad requires a slightly different approach compared to viewing it on a Mac. While private browsing is designed to leave no trace of your online activities, there are methods to uncover the history from these sessions on ...

  16. Keep your browsing history private in Safari and Maps

    In the Safari app, tap the Show Sidebar button , then tap Private. While Private Browsing Mode is on, the search field background is black instead of white and sites you visit don't appear in History on iPad or in the list of tabs on your other devices. You can open multiple private tabs in the Private Tab Group.

  17. How to Use Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone or iPad

    To activate Private Browsing, first launch Safari. If you don't see the toolbar at the top of the screen, tap anywhere once to reveal it. Then tap on the "New Window" button in the upper-right corner. On Safari's window management screen, tap the "Private" button in the upper-right corner. After Private Mode is enabled, tap the plus (+) button ...

  18. How To Check Safari History on iPhone and Mac [2024]

    Follow these simple steps too: 1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. 2. Scroll through the options and click on Safari. 3. Again, scroll and find the Clear History and Website Data option. 4 ...

  19. How to Check Your Incognito History (and How to Delete it)

    Delete private browsing history on a Mac. Start by clicking on Finder, then follow the steps below: Go to Applications, then click on Utilities, followed by Terminal. Type the command "sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder" in the window and press the Enter key. Now type your password and hit Enter again.

  20. How to Turn on Safari Private Browsing on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 3: Enable Private Browsing. Find the "Private" option at the bottom left of the screen and tap it. Once you tap "Private," you'll notice the color of the browser interface changes, indicating that you're now in Private Browsing Mode.

  21. Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

    Open Safari on your phone. Tap on the " Tabs " button. Tap where it says " X Tab (s) " - this number will reflect the number of windows you have open. Tap " Private .". Now, you're in Private Browsing mode and can click the small " + " (plus) icon to launch a new private window.

  22. How to View and Search Your Safari History: 2 Simple Ways

    Use the search bar to find specific websites. Enter your text in the Search bar. A list of matching results from your history will appear. Click a site to load it in Safari. 5. To clear your history, click the "History" menu. Click Clear History…. [2] Select a time frame from the drop-down menu, then click Clear History.

  23. Clear the history, cache, and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad

    To visit sites without leaving a history, turn Private Browsing on. Clear cookies and cache, but keep your history. Go to Settings > Safari > Advanced > Website Data. ... Delete a website from your history. Open the Safari app. Tap the Show Bookmarks button, then tap the History button.

  24. How to Check and Search Safari History on Mac

    View Browsing History in the Safari Toolbar. If you often need to check or search Safari history, customize your Safari toolbar, and add a button to quickly access your browsing history. Open the Safari browser on your Mac. From the ribbon menu, select View-> Customize Toolbar.

  25. Separate Your iPhone Browsing Habits With Safari Profiles

    In Safari, tap the Tabs icon with two overlapping squares. Tap the middle icon to bring up the active profile's menu. Tap the Profile option to change which profile is active.

  26. Next Level Incognito: Private Browsing Safari

    In addition to preventing the storage of browsing history and cookies, Private Browsing mode in Safari also blocks tracking cookies and ads that could compromise user privacy. By providing a separate browsing session apart from the main browser window, Private Browsing Safari offers users a secure and private environment for web surfing.