Introduction
Brave is a privacy-focused web browser that offers fast performance, built-in ad and tracker blocking, and extensive customization. On a shared device, you may want each person to have separate browsing histories, bookmarks, extensions, and settings. This article explains two main approaches to setting up Brave for multiple users on a single device: using Brave’s built-in profile manager and creating distinct operating-system user accounts.
Why Separate Browsing Environments Matter
- Privacy: Each user’s history, passwords, and cookies remain isolated.
- Customization: Individual themes, extensions, and homepages prevent conflicts.
- Security: Reduces risk of accidental data exposure between users.
- Convenience: Quick switching without logging out of the OS.
Method 1: Using Brave Profiles
Overview
Brave’s profile feature allows you to create distinct browser environments similar to Chrome profiles. Each profile has its own:
- History and bookmarks
- Saved passwords
- Open tabs and sessions
- Installed extensions
Step-by-Step Guide
- Open Brave: Launch the Brave browser on your device.
- Access Profile Manager: Click the profile icon in the top-right corner (it may show a circle with your avatar or initials).
- Add New Profile:
- Select “Add a profile” or “Manage profiles.”
- Click “Add profile.”
- Give it a name and choose an icon or avatar color.
- Optionally sign in to a Brave (or Google) account to sync bookmarks and settings.
- Switch Profiles:
- Open the profile menu again.
- Select the profile you wish to switch to.
- Customize Each Profile:
- Install extensions per profile.
- Set default search engine and home page.
- Adjust privacy and security settings.
Advantages and Considerations
- Quick switching without leaving Brave.
- Profiles share the same installation and update automatically.
- Profiles are not full operating-system separations a knowledgeable user can access another profile’s files unless the OS user account is locked.
Method 2: Creating Separate Operating-System User Accounts
Overview
For maximum isolation, create distinct user accounts in your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux). Each OS user has its own home directory where Brave stores user data.
Windows
- Open Settings gt Accounts gt Family amp other users.
- Click “Add account” under “Other users.”
- Follow prompts to create a local or Microsoft account.
- Log in to the new account and install/configure Brave.
macOS
- Open System Preferences gt Users amp Groups.
- Click the lock icon, authenticate, then click the “ ” button.
- Create a Standard or Administrator user.
- Log in to the new user profile and set up Brave.
Linux (Ubuntu example)
- Open Settings gt Users.
- Click “Unlock,” authenticate, and click “Add User.”
- Choose account type and set a password.
- Switch accounts and configure Brave for each user.
Advantages and Considerations
- Complete data isolation by OS user.
- Separate home directories ensure one user cannot read another’s files without permission.
- Each user must install Brave and handle their own updates.
Comparing the Two Methods
Feature | Brave Profiles | OS User Accounts |
---|---|---|
Installation | Single installation | Separate per account |
Data Isolation | Profile-level accessible if OS user has permission | Full OS-level isolation |
Switching | Instant via profile menu | Requires logging out or switching OS user |
Resource Usage | Lightweight | Higher (separate user processes) |
Advanced Tips
- Enable Sync: Use Brave Sync chain for each profile to back up bookmarks and settings to mobile or other devices. Learn more at Brave Sync.
- Guest Mode: For one-off browsing sessions, use “Guest” profile to avoid creating a new profile.
- Lock Profiles: On Windows, you can password-protect profiles using third-party extensions.
- Extension Management: Use “Extension permissions” to restrict or allow specific sites per profile.
Conclusion
Setting up Brave for multiple users on one device can be as simple or as robust as you need. For quick, in-browser separation, Brave Profiles offer convenience and speed. For total privacy and security, creating separate operating-system accounts is the best choice. Evaluate your needs and follow the appropriate method to ensure each user enjoys a personalized, secure browsing environment.
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