Google Chrome and other browsers offer advanced synchronization capabilities. If you log into the browser on two different computers, you can access your bookmarks (favorites), history, and passwords on each device. You can also change settings and have them automatically sync across them.
One disadvantage, of course, is that what you do on your home computer will also be visible on your work computer. However, there are a few ways to avoid this:
- Logging into Google Chrome is not required. If you skip the login, you will not get the benefits of synchronization, but on the other hand, but you will also avoid the risks. To log out, click the small round profile picture in the top right corner and select Synchronization is on > Disable. Accept Google’s warnings to confirm.
- Another option is to use different profiles on your work and home computer. For example, you could use a private Gmail address on one and a professional account on the other. To manage profiles in Google Chrome, click the profile picture and select Manage Chrome profiles. Click the three dots at the top right and select Delete. You can also select Add.
- It’s also possible to use several different browsers, even on the same computer. A browser is a regular program, and you can install as many as you like. I have done this myself to keep my logins for email, cloud accounts, and other services separate.
- For those who are particularly concerned about privacy, it may be best to avoid Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge altogether, as these companies are known for collecting user data. Many people instead choose a standalone browser that places greater emphasis on privacy. Brave and Tor Browser are two popular choices. The latter offers stronger anonymity but is more complex to use.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC för Alla and was translated and localized from Swedish.
Author: Martin Appel, Contributor, PCWorld
Martin is our sister site PC for Alla's consumer editor where he, among other things, guides you as a reader to what you need to be aware of when buying products and services. He writes engaging columns and tips on smart apps and programs, and sometimes he also tests hardware and software for PC för Alla.