> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.locksmith.guide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.locksmith.guide/tutorials/more/how-to-use-a-private-browsing-session.md).

# How to use a private browsing session

When testing Locksmith configurations, it's frequently useful to open a private browsing session, thus guaranteeing that neither Locksmith nor Shopify will remember any of your previous activity, giving you a clean slate to test with.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Important:** If you're using a URL with the `shopifypreview.com` domain to test, Locksmith changes won't appear there.

The Shopify theme editor's built-in preview bypasses Locksmith entirely. Locks, keys, and any manual locking code can look like they are not in place.

If you're testing your published theme, open the live storefront URL in a new private browsing window.

If you're testing an unpublished theme, use the preview URL that includes `?fts=0&preview_theme_id=` followed by your theme ID, as described in [Testing Locksmith on unpublished themes](https://www.locksmith.guide/tutorials/more/testing-locksmith-on-unpublished-themes).
{% endhint %}

All major web browsers support private browsing. Here's how to start a session, in each browser:

* Google Chrome: File → New Incognito Window (Ctrl+Shift+N, or Command+Shift+N)
* Safari: File → New Private Window (Command+Shift+N)
* Firefox: File → New Private Window (Ctrl+Shift+P, or Command+Shift+P)
* Microsoft Edge: File → New InPrivate Window (Ctrl+Shift+N, or Command+Shift+N)

For more information, from the sources, on how to use "private session" (sometimes called an incognito window), use the following links:

* [Chrome (desktop & mobile)](https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95464)
* [Safari on Mac](https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/browse-in-private-ibrw1069/mac)
* [Safari on iOS](https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203036)
* [Firefox (desktop)](https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/private-browsing-use-firefox-without-history)
* [Firefox (mobile)](https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/private-browsing-firefox-android)
* [Edge (desktop & mobile)](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/browse-inprivate-in-microsoft-edge-cd2c9a48-0bc4-b98e-5e46-ac40c84e27e2)


---

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