How to Browse as a Guest in Microsoft Edge

This guide explains how to use the Guest mode feature in the Microsoft Edge browser.

Microsoft Edge is the default web browser for Windows 11. However, you can  switch to their preferred or favorite browser if you prefer a different one. Edge is built on the Chromium engine, which is the same technology used by Google Chrome.

Browse as a guest lets you open a temporary window. You do not need to sign in to any accounts to use it. When you use Guest mode, your browsing history, cookies, or other site information will not be saved. Everything is wiped clean as soon as you close the window.

If you prefer not to use Guest mode, Microsoft Edge also offers an InPrivate mode to help keep your activity private.

Why use Guest mode?

Guest mode is perfect when you are using a computer that isn’t yours, or if you want to search for something without it appearing in your history. It keeps your personal data separate from the browsing session.

What happens when done?

Once you close the Guest window, all temporary files, cookies, and history from that session are permanently deleted from the computer.

How to browse as a guest in Microsoft Edge

You can quickly start a guest session directly from the browser interface:

1. Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
2. Click on your profile icon located on the top toolbar.
3. Select “Browse as a guest” from the menu that appears.

A new, separate window will open. You are now browsing as a guest.

Browsing as a guest using a command

You can also launch a guest window using a command. This is useful for creating a custom shortcut on your desktop.

Note: You do not need admin privileges to run these commands, but you must ensure the file path is correct for your system installation.

Use this command to open a blank guest window:

"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" -guest

Use this command if you want to open a specific website immediately:

"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" -guest https://geekrewind.com

Summary

Browsing as a guest in Microsoft Edge is a simple way to protect your privacy on shared devices. By creating a temporary, isolated profile, you ensure that your browsing history, cookies, and site data are never saved to the computer. Whether you use the profile menu or a command line shortcut, it is a convenient tool for maintaining your digital footprint.