How to Set Up Incognito Mode Shortcut on Windows

If you frequently browse the web in Incognito Mode, setting up a dedicated shortcut can save you time. This guide shows you how to create an Incognito shortcut for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox directly on your Windows desktop.

Why Use Incognito Mode?

Incognito Mode prevents your browser from saving your browsing history, cookies, or form data. It’s useful for:

• Checking websites without personalized results
• Signing into multiple accounts at once
• Keeping your activity private on shared devices

Set Up an Incognito Shortcut for Chrome

1. Right-click on your desktop and choose New > Shortcut.
2. In the location field, paste this: "C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe" -incognito If Chrome is installed in a different folder, adjust the path accordingly.
3. Click Next, name it something like “Chrome Incognito”, and click Finish.
4. Optional: Right-click the shortcut > Properties > Change Icon to make it visually distinct.

Set Up InPrivate Browsing Shortcut for Microsoft Edge

1. Right-click on the desktop > New > Shortcut.
2. Enter this path: "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" -inprivate
3. Click Next, name it “Edge InPrivate”, and click Finish.
4. Change the icon if you want, just like with Chrome.

Set Up Private Browsing Shortcut for Firefox

1. Right-click on the desktop > New > Shortcut.
2. Enter this: "C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox\firefox.exe" -private-window
3. Click Next, name it “Firefox Private”, and click Finish.

Bonus Tip: Pin to Taskbar for Quick Access

After creating the shortcut:

• Right-click it and select Pin to taskbar.
• Now you can launch Incognito/Private mode with one click.

Final Thoughts

Having a shortcut for Incognito Mode is a small productivity upgrade—but a surprisingly useful one. Whether you’re researching without bias, managing multiple logins, or just prefer a cleaner browsing slate, this quick setup makes your workflow smoother.

Got a tip or trick to add? Drop it in the comments below.