Check a website in a private browser window
A private window is useful for viewing a public page separately from your normal browser session. It can help reveal whether a problem depends on being signed in or on existing site data. It is a comparison tool, not a security audit, an anonymous connection or proof that every visitor will see exactly the same result.
Before you start
- Use a normal public website address, without an account or payment token.
- Note what appears wrong in your regular browser before making the comparison.
What to do
Start a fresh private session
Use your browser’s supported private or incognito mode. Close any older private windows first if you need a new session, after saving anything important. Private windows within the same session can share temporary site data, so an already-open one may not be a clean comparison.
Open the exact public address
Type or paste the known address rather than following a different search result. Compare the same page and element. Do not sign in immediately, because that would remove the useful distinction between an anonymous visitor view and your regular authorised view.
Compare ordinary actions only
Check navigation, visible text and images. Record differences in cookie banners or menus, which may be expected for a new visitor. Do not repeatedly submit a form, book an appointment or pay for an order merely because the first session produced an unclear result.
Report the difference accurately
Tell the maintainer which browser you used and what changed between normal and private views. Mention if the issue affects only a signed-in page. Close the private session after testing, and keep any necessary screenshot in your normal secure support records.
What to check
- Both views use the identical public address.
- The comparison records sign-in and cookie-banner differences.
- No duplicate enquiry, booking or payment was created.
Sources and further reading
Platform features can change. Check the provider’s current guidance before changing a live service.