Solutions and reasons why Edge InPrivate is not working

Last update: 10/07/2025

  • Edge's InPrivate mode may fail due to settings, updates, or restrictions.
  • It's critical to ensure that Windows and Edge are up to date and free of interfering software.
  • Privacy depends on closing all InPrivate windows and reviewing extensions and permission policies.
Edge InPrivate not working

Microsoft Edge, the browser from the Redmond house, has evolved over the years to become one of the main alternatives to other browsers such as Chrome or FirefoxHowever, many users encounter a recurring problem: Microsoft Edge's InPrivate mode isn't working as expected or has anomalies that make it difficult to maintain browsing privacy. This feature, designed to allow private and secure browsing, often generates doubts or simply stops performing as expected.

In this article you will find a complete, practical and up-to-date guide about the main flaws of InPrivate mode in Edge, the reasons why it may stop working properly and, above all, The best solutions and recommendations so you can restore your privacy and browse without leaving a trace on your device.All of this is explained in a simple, step-by-step manner using easy-to-follow resources, without unnecessary technical jargon and with verified and up-to-date information.

What is InPrivate mode in Microsoft Edge and what does it do?

Microsoft Edge InPrivate

InPrivate mode is Edge's version of private browsing, similar to Chrome incognito mode or firefox. Its main function is do not save browsing history, cookies, cache, or other temporary data once you close all open private windows. This way, what happens during your private session isn't recorded in your browser history.

  • Does not store visited pages, cookies, or temporary files after closing the InPrivate session.
  • Allows you to navigate through sensitive sites or perform searches that you prefer to keep private.
  • Downloaded files and favorites are preserved., since they are associated with the general user profile.
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However, it is not infallible: Your Internet service provider, local network, or your organization may log activity, even if you're browsing in private mode. Additionally, certain features, such as location permissions or extensions, may remain active depending on your individual settings.

Reasons why Edge's InPrivate mode may fail

Incognito mode in Edge

Malfunction or failure in InPrivate mode They are usually caused by a combination of factors. The most common include:

  • Pending Updates both in Windows and Edge, which sometimes prevents the correct deletion of history or cookies after closing the private session.
  • Damage to internal browser files, usually resulting from sudden blackouts or forced closures.
  • Restrictions applied by organizations (companies, educational centers…), which can completely disable InPrivate mode through group policies.
  • Presence of third-party antivirus or optimization programs that may block or interfere with the browser's actions.
  • User settings, installed extensions, or synchronized profiles that compromise privacy.

Sometimes after an update, Edge may start saving InPrivate session history or leaving browsing traces on your hard drive., as happened some time ago even after supposed fixes in Windows 10. This It can be due to both unresolved bugs and poor implementation of private data management..

Related article:
Security and privacy in Microsoft Edge

Repair methods and solutions to regain privacy

InPrivate Edge

If you confirm that InPrivate is still not working properly, try these troubleshooting methods:

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1. Update Edge and Windows to the latest version available

Updates fix privacy issues and strengthen temporary data management. Accede to What is the latest version of Microsoft Edge? to check for new versions.

2. Run diagnostics and restore damaged files

Follow these steps to check the integrity of your system files and fix any errors affecting Edge:

  1. press Windows + X and open Windows PowerShell (Administrator) o Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Write the command sfc / scannow and press Enter. Wait for the process to complete.
  3. Then run DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / Scanhealth followed by Enter, and then DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / RestoreHealth.

These commands restore damaged components that can affect both Windows and the browserIt's important to run them one by one and with patience, as they may take several minutes.

3. Optimization and review of security configurations

  • Temporarily disable third-party antivirus or optimization programs. Some may block privacy-related Edge processes.
  • Sign in the Edge Security Center to manage the location and permissions of websites.
  • Activate the Tracking prevention in Strict mode and select the option to block third-party cookies. This will prevent sites from personalizing ads or tracking your browsing in private mode.
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Keep in mind that changing these settings may cause some portals to not work as intended, so experiment and adjust according to your needs.

4. Check the installed extensions

Some Extensions can remain active in InPrivate mode if you have authorized it.. Accede to avoid pop-ups and check if any have permissions to run in private browsing. Disable them one by one and see if the problem persists.

5. Check group policies or organizational restrictions

If your computer belongs to an organization (company, school, etc.), You may have disabled InPrivate mode from the admin panel. Only administrators can revert these changes. If you see the message "InPrivate Browsing is disabled by your organization," There is no other option than to consult with the IT manager.

El Microsoft Edge InPrivate mode It can be a useful tool to improve your digital privacy, but It is not free from limitations or occasional failuresKnowing the real scope of the problem, keeping the system up to date, and applying appropriate solutions to any anomalies is key to ensuring a safer browsing experience.

If you follow the steps indicated and stay alert for possible updates or changes in the configuration, You can browse with greater peace of mind knowing that your personal information is better protected.