Clearing Cache in Windows 10: Steps and Tips
Welcome, dear readers! As we spend longer hours working on our computers, it becomes essential to keep them running smoothly. Browsing web pages, streaming videos, and running applications results in temporary files that accumulate in our computer’s cache. If we do not clear them regularly, it might result in slowing down our PC. So, to help you with this issue, we bring you this article on “How to clear the cache in Windows 10.” Let’s dive in!
Steps to Clear the Cache in Windows 10
Step 1: Clear the Browser Cache
The first step is to clear the browser cache. It stores data, such as images, videos, and cookies that help to load web pages faster. However, with time, the cache size becomes significant and can make browsing sluggish. To delete it, go to the browser’s settings and click on the Privacy & Security option. Then, click “Clear browsing data” and select the items that you want to erase. Finally, click the “Clear data” button, and voila!
Step 2: Clear the Windows Store Cache
To clear the Windows store cache, open the command prompt as an administrator and type “wsreset.exe.” Press Enter, and the cache will reset. This step will fix any errors you encounter when downloading applications from the Microsoft store.
Step 3: Clear the Windows Search Cache
Clearing the Windows search cache can solve issues such as slow searches and incorrect results. To do this, open the task manager and look for Windows Explorer. Then right-click on it and choose “End task.” Next, go to “File Explorer” and open the folder “C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.Windows.Cortana_cw5n1h2txyewy\LocalState” and delete the “Indexed” folder. Once done, restart “Windows Explorer.”
Step 4: Clear the System Files Cache
The system files cache can occupy a considerable amount of disk space. To clear it, go to “File Explorer” and right-click on the Windows drive. Select Properties and click on Disk Cleanup. Check the “System files” option, and then select OK. Finally, click on “Clean up system files” and wait for the process to complete.
Step 5: Clear the DNS Cache
Clearing the DNS cache will help you resolve issues with the internet’s connectivity. To do this, type “cmd” in the search bar, right-click on the Command Prompt option, and choose “Run as administrator.” Then, type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
Step 6: Clear the Thumbnail Cache
The thumbnail cache stores images and previews of files that enable faster access. However, it can slow down your computer over time. To clear it, open the “Windows explorer” and select the “View” tab. Click on the “Options” button and select “Change folder and search options.” Under the “View” tab, select “Always show icons, never thumbnails” and click “Apply.”
Step 7: Clear the Event Viewer Log Cache
To clear the Event Viewer Log cache, type “Event Viewer” in the search bar, and click on it. From there, select the log that you want to clear and right-click on it. Finally, select the “Clear log” option.
Step 8: Clear the Prefetch Cache
The prefetch cache stores data that the operating system needs to start applications quickly. However, over time, it can increase startup time. To clear it, open the “Windows Explorer” and navigate to “C:\Windows\Prefetch.” Select all files and delete them.
Step 9: Clear the Temp Files Cache
The temporary files cache stores data that the system generates during an operation. They can slow down the computer over time and should be cleared periodically. To delete them, press “Windows key + R” and type “%temp%.” Select all files and delete them.
Step 10: Clear the Recycle Bin Cache
The Recycle Bin holds deleted files and can slow down the computer when it becomes full. Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop and select “Empty Recycle Bin.”
Step 11: Clear the Clipboard Cache
The Clipboard cache holds the last data that you copied, and it accumulates over time. To clear it, press “Windows key + V” and click on the three dots icon. Select “Clear all” to delete the saved data.
Step 12: Update Windows
Finally, updating Windows can clear any cache and ensure that all system files are up to date, improving system performance.
Tips and Tricks
T1: Use CCleaner
CCleaner is a useful tool that can help clear the cache and other unnecessary files. Install it and run it periodically for better performance.
T2: Disable the Superfetch feature
The Superfetch feature can cause high disk usage, leading to system slowdowns. To disable it, press “Windows key + R,” type “services.msc,” and select the “Superfetch” option. Click on “Stop” and select “Disabled” from the Startup Type dropdown menu.
T3: Limit the virtual memory usage
Virtual memory can affect system performance. To limit it, go to the “System Properties” settings, select the “Advanced” tab, and choose “Settings” under the “Performance” option. Then, click on the “Advanced” tab, click on “Change” under “Virtual Memory,” and choose to “Customize” it.
T4: Change the startup type of certain services
Some services can slow down the system during startup. Changing their startup type to “Manual” can help. Press “Windows key + R,” type “services.msc,” and locate the service. Then, right-click on it, choose “Properties,” select “Manual” from the “Startup type” dropdown, and click “OK.”
T5: Keep your computer up-to-date
Regularly updating your computer can help to maintain good performance.
T6: Free up disk space
Having ample disk space can improve system performance. Removing unnecessary files, uninstalling unused programs, and deleting old downloads can help to free up space.
T7: Defragment the Hard drive
Defragmenting the hard drive can help to optimize its performance. Go to “File Explorer,” right-click on the drive, select “Properties,” and then click on “Tools.” Under Optimize and Defragment Drive, click on “Optimize.”
T8: Remove Bloatware
Manufacturers often include pre-installed software, which can slow down the system. Remove them to improve the speed of your computer.
T9: Add more RAM
Upgrading your RAM can speed up the computer, as it can process more data at once.
T10: Use an SSD
SSDs are faster than traditional hard drives. Replacing your hard drive with an SSD can result in a significant performance boost.
In conclusion, clearing the cache in Windows 10 is essential to keep your computer running smoothly. These easy steps and tips will help you optimize your computer’s performance, making it faster and more reliable.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Clearing Cache in Windows 10
Advantages
1. Free up storage space – Clearing the cache helps to free up valuable storage space. It eliminates all temporary files, cookies, and other junk files that may take up unnecessary space on your hard drive.
2. Speed up performance – When the cache is cleared, it removes all the old, outdated files that may slow down your computer. As a result, your computer’s performance will improve significantly.
3. Protect your privacy – Clearing the cache is an excellent way to protect your privacy. It ensures that all traces of your online activity are wiped out, and your sensitive information stays safe and secure.
4. Resolve software issues – Sometimes, a software application may not work correctly due to a corrupted cache. Clearing the cache can help resolve such issues.
5. Improves browsing experience – Clearing the cache ensures that you get the latest and updated version of a website, making your browsing experience faster and smoother.
Disadvantages
1. May slow down initial website loading – When you clear the cache, your browser will have to download the latest version of the website, which can take time and slow down the initial loading process.
2. Loss of saved data – Clearing the cache will delete all your browsing history, passwords, and other saved data associated with a website. It is essential to save this data elsewhere before clearing the cache.
3. May cause login issues – Clearing the cache may lead to login issues, as it deletes all the saved login cookies that keep you logged in to a website.
4. Can require more data usage – Clearing the cache means you have to download all the website data again, resulting in increased data usage, especially for users with limited data plans.
5. Can affect website functionality – Some websites may not work correctly if you clear the cache regularly, as it requires the use of cached data to function correctly.
FAQ
1. What is cache in Windows 10?
Cache in Windows 10 refers to temporary files stored on your computer to help load websites and applications faster.
2. Why do I need to clear the cache?
Clearing the cache can help free up space on your computer and fix issues with websites or applications not loading correctly.
3. Will clearing the cache delete my personal data?
No, clearing the cache will only remove temporary files. Your personal data will not be affected.
4. How often should I clear the cache?
It is recommended to clear the cache every few weeks or monthly, depending on your usage habits.
5. How do I clear the cache in Windows 10?
You can clear the cache by going to the Settings menu, selecting “Storage”, and clicking on “Temporary files”. From there, you can select “Delete temporary files” to clear the cache.
6. Will clearing the cache fix slow computer performance?
Clearing the cache can help improve computer performance, but it may not be the only solution. Other factors such as outdated software and malware can also cause slow performance.
7. How long does it take to clear the cache?
The time it takes to clear the cache depends on the amount of data stored. It can take a few minutes for small caches and several hours for large caches.
8. Will clearing the cache delete my browser history?
No, clearing the cache will not delete your browser history. You will need to clear your browsing history separately.
9. Can I selectively clear cache for certain applications?
Yes, you can clear the cache for individual applications by going to the Settings menu, selecting “Apps & features”, and clicking on the specific application. From there, you can select “Advanced options” and choose to clear the cache.
10. Will clearing the cache affect my browser extensions?
No, clearing the cache will not affect your browser extensions.
11. Will clearing the cache affect my saved passwords and usernames?
No, clearing the cache will not affect your saved passwords and usernames.
12. Can I automate the process of clearing the cache?
Yes, you can use third-party software or browser extensions to automate the process of clearing the cache.
13. Is clearing the cache the same as deleting cookies?
No, clearing the cache and deleting cookies are different processes. Clearing the cache removes temporary files, while deleting cookies removes website data such as login information and site preferences.
How to Clear the Cache in Windows 10
If you are experiencing slow performance or encountering issues with your Windows 10 computer, it might be time to clear your cache. The cache is a local storage space that contains temporary files that help your computer to run faster. However, if the cache becomes too full, your computer may start to slow down or experience issues.
To clear your cache on Windows 10, you can follow these simple steps:
Conclusion
Clearing your cache in Windows 10 is an important maintenance task that can help improve the performance of your computer. By following these simple steps, you can easily clear your cache and ensure that your computer is running smoothly.
Closing
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on how to clear the cache in Windows 10. We hope that you found the information helpful and that it will assist you in keeping your computer running smoothly. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Until next time, happy computing!