Can't delete history on Safari Os Catalina 10.15.7

Tried everything recommended, but can't delete history starting recently (always grayed out) and can't open a private window.

iMac 27″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Aug 14, 2023 4:58 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 17, 2023 7:20 AM

You're welcome, WestSacramento,


We understand that you've already attempted troubleshooting, would you mind sharing the steps you've taken so far? We don't want to ask you to repeat the same troubleshooting steps again.


If features aren't available in Safari, you may consider checking your Safari extensions, security software and network settings as outlined here: If Safari doesn't open a page or work as expected on your Mac - Apple Support

"Check Safari settings

The webpage might not be compatible with one or more browser settings, which you can turn on or off as needed. From the menu bar in Safari, choose Safari > Settings (or Preferences). Then click Websites, Privacy, or Security to access these settings:

  • Privacy settings. These settings apply to all websites. For example, a website might require that you allow cross-site tracking, show your IP address, or allow cookies.
  • Security settings. These settings apply to all websites. For example, a website might require that you enable JavaScript.
  • Websites settings. These settings can be configured for specific websites. For example, a website might require that you allow pop-up windows, allow downloads, allow access to your camera or microphone, or turn off content blockers.


Check VPN or other security software

If you installed VPN or other software that monitors or interacts with your network connections, that software could affect your use of the website or the internet. Learn about network issues related to VPN and other software


Check network settings

Certain network settings, such as custom proxy settings or custom DNS settings, can affect access to content on the internet. Even if you haven't changed these or other network settings yourself, you might have installed software that changed them for you. 

To find out whether the issue is with the network settings on your Mac, try viewing the page from a different web browser or different device on the same network. Or reset your network settings by setting up a new network location on your Mac.

If the issue affects other devices and web browsers on the same network, the issue is probably with the website, and you should contact the website developer for help. "


If you're unable to isolate this behavior based on the troubleshooting steps outlined in the article above, would you mind testing Safari in safe mode? Safe mode will prevent some software from loading and check your disk for any errors. You can learn about how to start in safe mode and what you can expect when you do start your Mac in safe mode here: Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support

"Verify your Mac started up in safe mode

If you’re unsure whether your Mac started up in safe mode, you can use the System Information app to check the mode.

  1. On your Mac, press and hold the Option key, then choose Apple menu  > System Information.
  2. In the System Information app, select Software in the sidebar.
  3. In the System Software Overview, look at the value listed next to the item labeled Boot Mode.
    • Safe: The Mac is using safe mode.
    • Normal: The Mac is not using safe mode."


Let us know how it goes.


Cheers!


3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 17, 2023 7:20 AM in response to WestSacramento

You're welcome, WestSacramento,


We understand that you've already attempted troubleshooting, would you mind sharing the steps you've taken so far? We don't want to ask you to repeat the same troubleshooting steps again.


If features aren't available in Safari, you may consider checking your Safari extensions, security software and network settings as outlined here: If Safari doesn't open a page or work as expected on your Mac - Apple Support

"Check Safari settings

The webpage might not be compatible with one or more browser settings, which you can turn on or off as needed. From the menu bar in Safari, choose Safari > Settings (or Preferences). Then click Websites, Privacy, or Security to access these settings:

  • Privacy settings. These settings apply to all websites. For example, a website might require that you allow cross-site tracking, show your IP address, or allow cookies.
  • Security settings. These settings apply to all websites. For example, a website might require that you enable JavaScript.
  • Websites settings. These settings can be configured for specific websites. For example, a website might require that you allow pop-up windows, allow downloads, allow access to your camera or microphone, or turn off content blockers.


Check VPN or other security software

If you installed VPN or other software that monitors or interacts with your network connections, that software could affect your use of the website or the internet. Learn about network issues related to VPN and other software


Check network settings

Certain network settings, such as custom proxy settings or custom DNS settings, can affect access to content on the internet. Even if you haven't changed these or other network settings yourself, you might have installed software that changed them for you. 

To find out whether the issue is with the network settings on your Mac, try viewing the page from a different web browser or different device on the same network. Or reset your network settings by setting up a new network location on your Mac.

If the issue affects other devices and web browsers on the same network, the issue is probably with the website, and you should contact the website developer for help. "


If you're unable to isolate this behavior based on the troubleshooting steps outlined in the article above, would you mind testing Safari in safe mode? Safe mode will prevent some software from loading and check your disk for any errors. You can learn about how to start in safe mode and what you can expect when you do start your Mac in safe mode here: Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support

"Verify your Mac started up in safe mode

If you’re unsure whether your Mac started up in safe mode, you can use the System Information app to check the mode.

  1. On your Mac, press and hold the Option key, then choose Apple menu  > System Information.
  2. In the System Information app, select Software in the sidebar.
  3. In the System Software Overview, look at the value listed next to the item labeled Boot Mode.
    • Safe: The Mac is using safe mode.
    • Normal: The Mac is not using safe mode."


Let us know how it goes.


Cheers!


Aug 15, 2023 12:09 PM in response to WestSacramento

Hello WestSacramento,


Thank you for posting in Apple Support Communities.


Based on the information provided on your post, it looks like you may need to update your Mac. To do that, follow the steps found here: Update macOS on Mac - Apple Support


After updating the macOS, if you’re still unable to clear Safari history, we recommend reaching out to Apple Support so they can look into this in more detail. You can do that here: Apple Support


Kindest regards. 


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Can't delete history on Safari Os Catalina 10.15.7

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.