To automatically clear your browsing history in Chrome when you close the browser, you can utilize Chrome's settings or extensions. Unfortunately, the provided reference focuses on disabling Chrome Sync and deleting specific data types, not specifically clearing history on browser close. Therefore, I'll provide solutions based on common methods.
Method 1: Using Chrome's Built-in Settings (Cookies and Site Data)
While Chrome doesn't have a direct "clear history on close" option for everything, you can configure it to clear cookies and site data, which are often a significant part of browsing history. This can be a partial solution.
- Open Chrome Settings: Click the three vertical dots in the top-right corner of Chrome, then select "Settings."
- Go to Privacy and Security: In the Settings menu, click on "Privacy and security."
- Cookies and other site data: Select "Cookies and other site data."
- Enable "Clear cookies and site data when you quit Chrome": Toggle this option to the "on" position.
This setting will delete cookies and site data each time you close Chrome. This will not clear your browsing history, download history, or saved passwords.
Method 2: Using a Chrome Extension
Several Chrome extensions offer more comprehensive "clear history on close" functionality. Here's a general approach, but specific steps may vary depending on the extension you choose:
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Find an Extension: Search the Chrome Web Store for extensions like "Click&Clean," "History AutoDelete," or similar tools. Read reviews and check permissions carefully before installing.
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Install the Extension: Click "Add to Chrome" to install the extension.
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Configure the Extension: Most extensions will have options to customize what data is cleared on browser close. Common options include:
- Browsing History
- Download History
- Cookies
- Cached Images and Files
- Passwords
- Form Data
Example: An extension might offer a settings panel where you can check boxes to select exactly which types of data to clear when Chrome closes.
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Set to Auto-Clean on Close: Ensure the extension is configured to automatically clear the selected data each time you close Chrome. This usually involves selecting an option like "Clean on Exit" or "Auto-Clean."
Important Considerations for Extensions:
- Permissions: Be cautious about the permissions an extension requests. An extension that clears history needs access to your browsing data, so only install extensions from reputable developers.
- Performance: Some extensions can slightly impact browser performance.
- Updates: Keep your extensions updated for security and compatibility.
Method 3: Disable Chrome Sync and Delete Specific Data (Based on Provided Reference)
The provided reference mentions disabling Chrome Sync and deleting specific data types. While this isn't exactly "clearing history on close," it's related to managing your data within Chrome. This might be useful if you want to manage synced data, though it doesn't directly address clearing history upon closing the browser.
Steps:
- Click Chrome Sync (ChromeOS): This option is specific to ChromeOS. Look for the Chrome Sync option in your Chrome settings.
- Select Disable Chrome Sync: Disable syncing your data.
- Check the boxes to select the data types that you want Chrome to delete: This allows you to choose what gets removed. Options may include history, passwords, bookmarks, etc. Note: This will likely only delete the data that was synced, not necessarily everything in your local browsing history.
- Click Save: Save your changes.