The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Configure Safari Privacy Settings on macOS

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
macOS Sequoia - MacBook Pro M3
You will need
Mac running macOS Sequoia or later, Safari browser

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Access Safari Privacy Settings

    Open Safari. Navigate to the top menu bar, select Safari, and click Settings. Navigate to the Privacy tab to view global security configurations.

    Note: Ensure you are using the latest version of Safari for maximum security definitions.
  2. 1 min

    Enable Intelligent Tracking Prevention

    Within the Privacy tab, ensure the checkbox for 'Use advanced tracking and fingerprinting protection' is selected. Set the dropdown menu to 'All Browsing' to apply protection to both standard and Private Browsing windows.

  3. 1 min

    Manage Cookie and Website Data

    Click the 'Manage Website Data' button to view a list of sites storing cache and cookies on your local machine. Select specific domains and click 'Remove' to purge tracking data, or click 'Remove All' for a clean slate.

    Note: Removing all data will sign you out of most active websites.
  4. 30 sec

    Hide Your IP Address

    Locate the 'Hide IP address' option within the Privacy tab. Choose 'From Trackers' to mask your identity from known advertising networks while maintaining site functionality.

    Note: Selecting 'From Trackers and Websites' provides maximum privacy but may impact specific site functionality.
  5. 1 min

    Enforce Private Browsing Authentication

    Switch to the 'General' tab in Settings. Ensure 'Require Touch ID or password to view locked tabs' is enabled. This secures your Private Browsing sessions behind your Mac’s system authentication.

    Note: This is essential if your Mac is accessed by multiple users.