Use separate browser profiles on a shared computer

Browser profiles separate bookmarks, extensions, settings and sign-ins. They are useful when several people use one computer or when work and personal accounts are easy to confuse. They are not an access-control boundary: someone who can unlock your computer may still be able to open your browser profile.

Set up a safer routine​

1. Create a distinct profile for each regular user in the browser's profile menu. In Edge, each profile can have its own bookmarks, extensions and preferences. Give each profile a clear name or picture to reduce posting from the wrong account.
2. Use a temporary guest profile for a visitor instead of handing over an already signed-in personal profile. Have the visitor close all guest windows when finished; check that no downloads or saved files remain on the computer.
3. Protect the operating-system account with a strong unlock method. Separate Windows or macOS user accounts are better when users need genuine privacy from one another.
4. Keep work-managed accounts in the profile your employer expects. Check whether a profile is managed before changing security settings or syncing personal data into it.

Test the boundary​

Open one profile and verify that the other user's mail and bookmarks are not present. Then lock the computer and check whether an unauthorized person could still reach the desktop: a browser profile alone will not stop them. Microsoft's Edge profile guide describes the separation and guest option. For an unfamiliar sign-in caused by a shared browser, use our Google device checklist before removing a device that is actually yours.