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How to Browse as a Guest in Microsoft Edge

Richard
Written by
Richard
May 5, 2024 Updated Jul 13, 2026 4 min read
Microsoft Edge featured image
Microsoft Edge featured image

Microsoft Edge’s Guest browsing lets you open a temporary window that doesn’t save your activity. This mode is perfect for when you want to quickly use the internet without leaving any trace of your visit.

When you use Guest mode, your browsing history, cookies, and site data are automatically deleted as soon as you close the special Guest window. You don’t need to sign into any Microsoft accounts to start browsing.

Microsoft Edge is the default browser for Windows 11. It’s built on the same technology as Google Chrome, making it a familiar and capable web browser.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Microsoft Edge, click your profile icon, and select “Browse as a guest.” A new window will open for a temporary session that clears all data when closed.

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?

⚠️Warning
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

Browsing as a guest in Microsoft Edge is quite straightforward. Open Edge, click your profile picture in the top corner, and pick ‘Browse as a guest’ from the menu that pops up. This opens a fresh window where your activity isn’t saved to your main profile.

  1. Click on your profile icon located on the top toolbar.
  2. Select “Browse as a guest” from the menu that appears.
Microsoft Edge profile menu with 'Browse as a guest' option highlighted.
Microsoft Edge profile menu with 'Browse as a guest' option highlighted.

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

Browsing as a guest using a command

You can also start browsing as a guest in Edge by using a special command. This is useful if you want to create a quick shortcut on your desktop. To open a new guest window, use the command: “📁C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe” -guest.

📝Note
You don’t need administrator privileges to run these commands, but make sure the file path is correct for your system’s installation.

Use this command to open a blank guest window:

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

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

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

Summary

Using guest mode in Microsoft Edge is an effective way to keep your browsing private, especially when you’re using a computer that others also use. Your activity in guest mode automatically clears when you close the guest window, offering a privacy boost.

How do I browse as a guest in Microsoft Edge?

To browse as a guest in Microsoft Edge, open the browser and click on the profile icon on the toolbar. Then, select 'Browse as a guest' from the 'Other profiles' tile.

What is the difference between guest mode and InPrivate mode in Edge?

Guest mode creates a temporary profile for browsing without saving any data, while InPrivate mode also protects your privacy but is designed for users who may want to log into accounts without saving history.

Can I open a specific website in guest mode using a command?

Yes, you can open a specific website in guest mode by using the command line. For example, you can enter 'C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplicationmsedge.exe' -guest https://example.com.

Will my browsing history be saved when using guest mode in Edge?

No, when using guest mode in Microsoft Edge, your browsing history, cookies, and site data will not be saved. All data is deleted as soon as you close the guest window.

Is browsing as a guest in Edge safe?

Browsing as a guest in Edge is generally safe as it does not save your browsing data. However, it's important to remember that while it offers privacy, it does not provide complete anonymity online.

Does Edge have a guest mode?

When you use a guest profile, the browser won’t import browsing data from your existing profiles, and it deletes all browsing data once all guest profiles are closed. If you enable this policy or don’t configure it, Microsoft Edge lets users browse in guest profiles.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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