How to Stop Internet Explorer From Keeping History

Internet Explorer records your browsing history by default. This means the program tracks every website you visit and stores that information in the "History" folder for two weeks or more. Many Internet Explorer users dislike the feature because it can lead to breaches in privacy, especially on a shared PC. You can stop Internet Explorer from keeping history two different ways: editing the program's settings or enabling InPrivate browsing mode.

Instructions

1. Load Internet Explorer.

2. Click "Tools" from the menu bar. A list appears below "Tools."

3. Click "Internet Options" from the Tools list. A window opens.

4. Place a check in the box next to "Delete Browsing History on Exit," located in the "Browsing History" section.

5. Click "Settings" in the "Browser Settings" group. Another window appears.

6. Change the "Days to Keep Pages in History" field to "0."

7. Click "OK" to close the "Browser Settings" window and click "OK" again to close the "Internet Options" window.

Tips & Warnings

• You can enable "InPrivate" mode, which does not save any browsing data during your session, by pressing "Ctrl," "Shift" and "P."

References

• Microsoft Windows: What is InPrivate Browsing?
• Microsoft Windows: Keep Your Surfing to Yourself; Jay Munro
• Microsoft Windows: Internet Explorer 9 Privacy Statement

Resources

• Microsoft Windows: Internet Explorer Help and How-to