One of the most widely used web browsers is Google Chrome. As you would expect, it offers a variety of functions that enhance the user’s browsing experience. It can also provide you with private browsing with Guest Mode, so you can browse the web with a blank profile.
It’s perfect for those using public or shared devices. If you’ve ever wanted to try out Guest Mode for yourself or whenever someone wants to use your device, this guide will explain what Guest Mode is, how you can use it, and how it can be beneficial.
What is Guest Mode in Google Chrome?
First of all, it is worth mentioning that you know that Guest Mode is not the same as Incognito Mode as they are two different functions. Before you begin, make sure Chrome is updated to the latest version.
Guest Mode is a user profile that provides a secure browsing experience for people who share their devices with others. If someone wants to use your device, they can use Guest Mode, which doesn’t save any data, including cookies, history, and downloads.
How to Access Guest Mode in Google Chrome
If you want to try Guest Mode or want to know how it works, follow the steps below:
Enter guest mode
Open Google Chrome and click on the profile icon in the upper-right corner of the browser window and click on Guest from the Other profiles section in the dropdown menu. A new window will open with a blank tab. You are now in guest mode.
In Guest mode, you can browse the Internet as usual. You can still access websites and download files. But once the window is closed, your activity is not saved as no data will be stored using guest mode.
Exit guest mode
When you’re ready to turn off Guest mode, click the empty profile icon in the upper-right corner and click Close Guest from the menu, or close the browser window by clicking the X in the upper-right part of the screen.
Why Should You Use Guest Mode in Chrome?
If you’re speculating whether or not Guest Mode might actually come in handy, here’s why you might (or might not) want to use the feature:
Benefits of Guest Mode
To protect your privacy and prevent others from accessing your data when using a shared or public device, Guest Mode is the best option to offer private browsing.
Not only does Guest Mode have privacy benefits, but it can also be a helpful tool for Chrome troubleshooting. For example, if you’re having issues with a specific website, you can use Guest Mode to check if a cookie or extension is the cause.
Downsides to Guest Mode
Guest mode doesn’t come without downsides. For example, you can’t access extensions and apps, which could be a potential downside if you rely on them. Also, you cannot access synced data, saved bookmarks and downloads accessible to other Chrome profiles.
Be careful not to close the window prematurely, as you may not be able to continue from where you left off when you re-enter Guest mode. Furthermore, your activity and IP address may still be visible to your network and the websites you visit and sign in to.
While the downsides may seem off-putting, the benefits may outweigh them. And it shouldn’t have much of an effect, since Guest Mode is primarily designed for temporary browsing.
Get the Most Out of Guest Mode in Google Chrome
It’s a practical user profile that offers a new way to browse the web. By creating a temporary profile, you can browse and leave no trace of your activity when you exit, no matter where you access it or who uses it.
After getting used to Guest Mode, you should be familiar with Incognito Mode. While it is said to offer private browsing that does not save any history or data, is it really safe?