How to Turn On Incognito Mode on Opera GX Browser?

What is Incognito Mode in Opera GX?

Incognito Mode, known as Private Mode in Opera GX, allows you to browse without saving your history, cookies, or form data. This feature is essential for maintaining your privacy, especially if you’re using a shared or public computer. When you activate incognito mode, Opera GX ensures that no one else can see your browsing activities after you close the session.

For example, if you're shopping for a gift, incognito mode can help you keep it a secret. Unlike regular browsing, incognito mode won't save your visited pages, search queries, or any information entered into forms.

Benefits of Using Incognito Mode on Opera GX

Using incognito mode in Opera GX offers several advantages:

• Privacy Protection: Incognito mode prevents Opera GX from storing your browsing history, cookies, and site data. This is particularly useful when browsing on public computers, where others might have access to your activity.
• Reduced Targeted Ads: By not saving cookies or history, incognito mode reduces the likelihood of seeing targeted ads based on your browsing habits. Websites won’t be able to track your activity, meaning you’ll see fewer personalized ads.
• Confidential Research: If you’re conducting research, particularly on sensitive topics, incognito mode keeps your activities private, ensuring they don’t appear in your regular browsing history.

However, it’s important to note that while incognito mode offers a degree of privacy, it’s not foolproof.

Limitations of Incognito Mode

While incognito mode is great for keeping your local browsing private, it has some limitations:

• No Anonymity from Websites or ISPs: Websites you visit can still track you, and your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can monitor your activity. For complete privacy, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) alongside incognito mode.
• Vulnerability to Malware and Phishing: Incognito mode doesn't protect against malware or phishing attacks. Always ensure you have good antivirus software and be cautious of the sites you visit, even in incognito mode.

Setting Up Opera GX for Incognito Browsing

Before diving into private browsing, let's ensure your Opera GX settings are optimized for privacy.

Downloading and Installing Opera GX

If you haven’t already installed Opera GX, you can download it from the official Opera website. Follow the installation instructions to get started. The process is quick, and you’ll be ready to customize your privacy settings in no time.

Customizing Opera GX Privacy Settings

To maximize privacy, adjust the browser’s settings:

• Block Ads and Trackers: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security and enable the options to block ads and trackers. This helps prevent websites from collecting data about your browsing habits.
• Disable Third-Party Cookies: Cookies from third parties can track your activity across the web. Disabling them adds another layer of privacy.
• Enable Do Not Track: This setting sends a request to websites, asking them not to track your browsing activity. While not all sites honour this request, it’s a good additional step.

Customizing these settings enhances the effectiveness of incognito mode, ensuring a more private browsing experience.

How to Enter Incognito Mode on Opera GX

There are several ways to activate incognito mode in Opera GX:

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The quickest way to open a private window is by using the shortcut Ctrl + Shift + N on Windows or Cmd + Shift + N on Mac.

Accessing Through the Menu

Alternatively, click on the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner of the browser and select New Private Window. This method is straightforward and can be done even if you’re not familiar with keyboard shortcuts.

Opening a Private Window from a Regular Window

If you're already browsing and want to switch to incognito mode, click the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner and select New Private Window. This will open a new incognito session without closing your current window.

Navigating and Customizing Incognito Mode

Searching Privately

In incognito mode, your searches won’t be saved. Opera GX uses your default search engine but doesn’t store the history. Once you close the window, all traces of your session disappear.

Managing Bookmarks and Downloads

You can bookmark pages and download files while in incognito mode. However, these bookmarks and downloads won’t be saved to your regular browsing history once you exit the private window.

Using Extensions in Incognito Mode

If you use extensions, note that they don’t automatically work in incognito mode. To enable them, go to the Easy Setup menu, select Sections, and then choose Private Mode to activate your desired extensions.

Conclusion: The Best Way to Browse Privately on Opera GX

Incognito mode in Opera GX is a powerful tool for maintaining privacy. However, to achieve comprehensive online security, consider using a VPN and keeping your browser’s privacy settings optimized. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a more private and secure browsing experience on Opera GX.