How to Use Brave Browser Privacy Mode - Brave

Open Brave and click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner, then select "New Private Window" to activate private browsing mode.

Private windows in Brave provide enhanced anonymity by preventing browsing history, cookies, and cached data from being stored on your device. Unlike standard browsing, private mode automatically blocks third-party trackers and ads without requiring manual configuration. Each private session operates independently, meaning websites cannot track your activity across multiple visits.

Accessing Private Browsing

To use Brave browser privacy mode, press Ctrl+Shift+N on Windows and Linux, or Command+Shift+N on macOS. A new window opens with a distinctive private indicator displayed prominently. Mobile users can access private browsing by tapping the menu button and selecting "New Private Tab" on Android or iOS versions.

Tor Integration in Private Mode

Brave's private mode integrates optional Tor network connectivity for additional anonymity layers. When enabled, your IP address becomes masked through Tor's distributed relay system. Select "New Private Window with Tor" from the menu to route all traffic through multiple encrypted servers, hiding your location and identity from websites and internet service providers.

Privacy Settings Within Private Windows

Private windows automatically disable tracking cookies and block fingerprinting attempts. Website permissions—including camera, microphone, and location access—reset for each session. Brave's built-in shields remain active, blocking malicious scripts and unwanted advertisements automatically during private browsing.

Downloaded files remain accessible in your Downloads folder but do not appear in browsing history. Passwords saved outside private mode won't autofill within private sessions, adding an extra security layer.

For users requiring consistent privacy across all browsing, Brave's default settings already block third-party trackers and ads without needing private mode activation. However, combining private windows with Tor integration provides maximum anonymity for sensitive searches and confidential communications. Regular private browsing is suitable for general privacy needs, while Tor-enabled private windows serve users requiring maximum protection against surveillance.