How to Disable Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad?

How to Disable Private Browsing on iPhone or iPad?

Although private browsing is something I recommend, there are downsides to it. Since private browsing lets the user browse without leaving track of their activity, it is impossible to know what your kids were browsing on private browsing mode. So, how to disable private browsing on iPhone or iPad?

When you want to monitor what your children are browsing or prevent employees from accessing certain websites, you don’t want private browsing. Did you know you can block private browsing on your iPhone or iPad? This will let you have a better idea of what your internet connection is getting used for. 

In this article, I will show you how to disable private browsing on iPhone or iPad. I will show you two different ways to do so. These methods will definitely help you manage your browsing activity effectively.

How to Disable Private Browsing on iPhone?

How to Disable Private Browsing on iPhone?

In this guide, I will show you two methods to disable private browsing. 

Method 1: Using screen time.

Method 2: Using restrictions.

We will go into the complete step-by-step guide in the subsequent paragraphs. But before that, I need to tell you why you should disable private browsing on iPhone or iPad.

Method 1: Using Screen Time

This is how you disable private browsing using screen time (remember that this method is about content and privacy restriction. Turning this setting on will prevent the user from accessing certain websites with adult content):

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.

2. Select Screen Time (a purple & white hourglass icon)

3. Go to Content & Privacy Restrictions. If you have set up the restrictions earlier, you will be asked to enter the Screen Time password. If not, you will land on the restrictions page directly.

4. Toggle on Content & Privacy Restrictions.

Screenshots of steps to disable private browsing on iPad.

5. Hit Content Restrictions.

6. Select Web Content.

7. Tap on Limit Adult Websites, and Safari will no longer have a Private option.

Screenshots of steps to disable private browsing on iPad.

Method 2: Using Safari

This is how to disable private browsing using the Safari app.

1. Open Safari

2. Click the tabs icon (overlapping squares icon at the bottom)

3. Hit Private.

4. Hit Tabs or Start Page. This is how you switch to normal browsing in Safari.

Screenshots of steps to disable private browsing on iPhone using Safari

Why Disable Private Browsing on iPhone?

disable private browsing

What private browsing does is it doesn’t let your device save the details of your browsing, and the websites you visit are not shared with other devices of yours. Information like your AutoFill info and your search history is lost with private browsing. So, if you want to monitor the browsing history of your children or employees, you have to disable private browsing.

Basically, if private browsing is turned on, retracing your browsing history is not possible. Moreover, with private browsing, Safari blocks cookies of certain external sites which might affect your browsing experience in the sense that you will not get a personalized browsing experience. 

Also, if you think that private browsing will hide your IP address from websites and authorities, you are wrong. To ensure anonymity, you need to use something like a VPN. You can use a VPN even after disabling private browsing. 

How to Disable Private Browsing on iPhone?

Wrapping Up

So, now you know how to disable private browsing on your iPhone or iPad. It is a very useful setting. There are many instances where you need to monitor browsing activity. If you are an employer, this article is especially essential for you. By following the methods outlined in this article and the tips for managing your browsing history, you can take control of your iPhone’s privacy settings and ensure that your browsing activity is secure and managed effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I disable private browsing on a per-app basis on my iPhone?

No, you cannot disable private browsing on a per-app basis on your iPhone. The feature is either on or off for all apps.

Q2: Will disabling private browsing on my iPhone delete my browsing history?

No, disabling private browsing on your iPhone will not delete your browsing history. It will only prevent you from accessing private browsing mode.

Q3: How can I monitor my child’s online activity on an iPhone?

You can use the Screen Time feature on your iPhone to monitor and manage your child’s online activity, including browsing history.

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