How to Delete History on Internet Explorer
In the digital era, where online activities leave a trace, maintaining privacy is crucial. Internet Explorer, despite being succeeded by Microsoft Edge, is still used by many. If you’re an Internet Explorer user and want to clear your digital footprint, this guide will walk you through the steps to delete your internet explorer history and maintain your online privacy.
Why Delete Internet Explorer Browsing History?
1. Privacy Protection
Your browsing history contains a record of websites visited, searches made, and data entered into forms. Clearing it regularly protects your privacy by preventing others from accessing this sensitive information.
2. Shared Devices
If you share your computer or use a public computer, deleting your browsing history ensures that others cannot see your online activities.
3. Free Up Space
Over time, a large browsing history can take up storage space on your device. Regularly clearing it helps free up space for better device performance.
Clearing Browsing History in Internet Explorer
1. Open Internet Explorer
Launch Internet Explorer on your computer. Ensure that you are using the latest version for the most up-to-date features and security.
2. Access the Settings
Click on the gear icon in the top-right corner of the browser window. This will open the Tools menu. From the menu, select “Internet options.”
3. Open Browsing History Settings
In the Internet Options window, navigate to the “General” tab. Under the “Browsing history” section, click on the “Delete” button.
4. Choose Data Types to Delete
A new window will appear with a list of data types you can delete. Ensure that “History” is selected. You can also choose to delete other data types like cookies and temporary internet files if desired.
5. Clear Browsing History
Once you’ve selected the data types to delete, click on the “Delete” button. Internet Explorer will confirm the action, and after a moment, your browsing history will be cleared.
Permanently Delete Internet Explorer Browsing History
While the above steps clear your browsing history, it’s important to note that it doesn’t guarantee permanent deletion. To ensure a more comprehensive removal, follow these additional steps:
1. Adjust Settings for Future Use
To prevent Internet Explorer from storing browsing history in the future, go back to the Internet Options window. Under the “Browsing history” section, click on the “Settings” button. Here, you can adjust the number of days Internet Explorer keeps your history or choose to never store it.
2. Check for Saved Passwords
If you have saved passwords in Internet Explorer, consider removing them for added security. In the Internet Options window, under the “Browsing history” section, click on the “Settings” button, then select “View files.” Look for any saved passwords and delete them.
Additional Privacy Measures
1. Use InPrivate Browsing
To browse without leaving a trace, use Internet Explorer’s InPrivate Browsing mode. You can activate it by pressing Ctrl + Shift + P simultaneously. In this mode, Internet Explorer won’t store browsing history, search history, or any form data.
2. Manage AutoComplete Settings
To prevent Internet Explorer from saving and autofilling data in forms, go to the Internet Options window, click on the “Content” tab, and under the “AutoComplete” section, click on “Settings.” Adjust your settings accordingly.
3. Consider Alternative Browsers
If privacy is a top priority, consider using alternative browsers known for their privacy features, such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Microsoft Edge.
Conclusion
Taking control of your online privacy involves more than just clearing your browsing history; it requires understanding the features and settings of the browser you use. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can not only clear your browsing history on Internet Explorer but also take additional measures to enhance your online privacy. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and keep your digital footprint to a minimum for a more secure and private online experience.