Steps to Clear Cache on Windows
Clearing Browser Cache
The first type of cache that we will discuss is browser cache. This cache is created by your web browser and stores temporary files such as images, scripts, and other website data. Clearing your browser cache can help improve your browsing experience and fix issues such as slow loading times or website errors.
Here are the steps on how to clear cache in some of the popular web browsers:
Google Chrome
1. Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots icon located at the top right corner of the window.
2. Click “More tools” and then select “Clear browsing data” in the dropdown menu.
3. Choose the time range for which you want to clear the cache (such as “Last hour” or “All time”).
4. Check the box next to “Cached images and files” and uncheck everything else (unless you want to clear other data).
5. Click “Clear data” and wait for the process to finish.
Mozilla Firefox
1. Open Mozilla Firefox and click on the three lines icon located at the top right corner of the window.
2. Click “Library” and then select “History” in the dropdown menu.
3. Click “Clear Recent History”.
4. Choose the time range for which you want to clear the cache (such as “Last hour” or “Everything”).
5. Check the box next to “Cache” and uncheck everything else (unless you want to clear other data).
6. Click “Clear Now” and wait for the process to finish.
Microsoft Edge
1. Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three dots icon located at the top right corner of the window.
2. Click “Settings” and then select “Privacy, search, and services” in the left-hand menu.
3. Click “Choose what to clear” under the “Clear browsing data” section.
4. Check the box next to “Cached data and files” and uncheck everything else (unless you want to clear other data).
5. Click “Clear now” and wait for the process to finish.
Clearing Windows Store Cache
The second type of cache that we will cover is the Windows Store cache. This cache is created by the Microsoft Store app and stores temporary files related to app downloads, updates, and installation. Clearing the Windows Store cache can help fix issues with app downloads or updates that are stuck or not working properly.
To clear the Windows Store cache, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “wsreset.exe” and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to finish, and the Microsoft Store app will automatically open.
Clearing System Cache
The third type of cache that we will discuss is the system cache. This cache is created by Windows and stores temporary files related to system performance, user activity, and other functions. Clearing the system cache can help improve the overall performance and stability of your Windows PC.
To clear the system cache, follow these steps:
Step 1: Clear Temporary Files
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “%temp%” and press Enter.
3. Delete all the files and folders inside the Temp folder. (Note: If some files cannot be deleted, skip them and move on to the next step.)
Step 2: Clear System Files
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cleanmgr.exe” and press Enter.
3. Choose the drive where Windows is installed and click “OK”.
4. Wait for the system to scan the drive and show a list of files that can be deleted.
5. Check the box next to “Temporary files” and uncheck everything else (unless you want to clear other data).
6. Click “OK” and wait for the process to finish.
Step 3: Clear DNS Cache
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” and press Enter.
3. Type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
4. Wait for the process to finish and close the Command Prompt window.
Tips and Tricks
1. Use a third-party tool
If you want a quick and easy way to clear cache on Windows without having to go through each application manually, you can use a third-party tool such as CCleaner or CleanMyPC. These tools can help you remove all kinds of temporary files and optimize your PC’s performance.
2. Clear cache regularly
To avoid any performance issues or security risks, it’s recommended that you clear cache regularly, especially if you use your PC for a lot of web browsing or app downloads. You can set a schedule in your browser or use a third-party tool to automate this process for you.
3. Use a VPN
If you’re concerned about your online privacy, it’s a good idea to use a VPN (virtual private network) when browsing the web or using apps that connect to the internet. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, making it harder for third parties to track your activity or access your data.
4. Check for updates
To ensure that your Windows PC is running smoothly and securely, it’s important to keep it up to date with the latest patches and updates from Microsoft. You can check for updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
5. Backup your data
Just in case something goes wrong during the cache-clearing process or any other maintenance task, it’s always a good idea to backup your important files and documents. You can use a cloud storage service such as OneDrive or Google Drive, or an external hard drive, to keep a copy of your data safe and secure.
6. Disable unnecessary services
If your Windows PC is running slow or using up too much memory, it could be due to unnecessary services or programs running in the background. You can disable these services by going to Task Manager > Services and unchecking the boxes next to the services you don’t need. Just be careful not to disable any essential services that are required for your PC to function properly.
Conclusion
Clearing cache on Windows is a simple and effective way to improve your PC’s performance and fix any issues related to temporary files or data. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your Windows PC running smoothly and securely.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Clearing Cache on Windows
Advantages
1. Faster browsing speed: Clearing cache can significantly improve browsing speed as it removes unnecessary files and data that slow down the browser.
2. More storage space: Clearing the cache regularly frees up storage space on your hard drive, allowing you to save more important data and files.
3. Improved privacy: Clearing cache removes temporary files, cookies, and browsing history, which improves your privacy and security.
4. Fresh content: Clearing cache ensures that you are able to view the latest and updated content on websites instead of relying on outdated cached files.
5. Fixing website errors: Clearing cache can sometimes fix errors or glitches on websites by loading fresh data.
6. Resolving login issues: Clearing cache can sometimes resolve issues with logging in to websites by removing old or corrupted login information.
7. Improving website functionality: Clearing cache can help improve overall website functionality by freeing up memory and improving performance.
8. Saving bandwidth: Clearing cache can help save bandwidth usage as it removes unnecessary data, which is particularly useful for those on limited data plans.
9. Reducing crashes: Clearing cache regularly can help prevent crashes and improve overall system stability.
10. Enhancing user experience: Clearing cache can lead to a more enjoyable and seamless browsing experience by improving speed and performance.
Disadvantages
1. Loss of website data: Clearing cache can result in the loss of important website data such as saved passwords and form data.
2. Reload time: Clearing cache can increase the reload time of frequently visited websites as it needs to load fresh data and files.
3. Customization loss: Clearing cache can remove any customization preferences set on websites such as preferred language or zoom level.
4. Disturbed offline viewing: Clearing cache can prevent the ability to view website pages offline as it removes temporarily stored files.
5. Increased server load: Clearing cache can increase the load on servers as it needs to fetch new data and files for the user each time.
6. Reduced browser functionality: Clearing cache can cause some browser extensions to stop working and require reinstallation or setup.
7. Temporary slowdown: Clearing cache may cause a temporary slowdown in browsing speed as the browser has to load fresh data and files.
8. Loss of personalization: Clearing cache may remove personal preferences such as preferred themes and layouts on websites.
9. Possible data loss: Clearing cache can sometimes result in data loss if performed incorrectly or if there is a system error.
10. Inconvenience: Clearing cache can be an inconvenience as it requires regular maintenance and may disrupt browsing habits.
FAQ
What is cache?
Cache is a temporary storage area where frequently accessed data is stored for quick retrieval. In the case of web browsers, it stores web page resources such as images, CSS files, and scripts.
Why should I clear my cache?
Clearing your cache can help resolve issues with website functionality and page loading. It can also free up some storage space on your device.
How do I clear cache in Windows 10 using Microsoft Edge?
Open Microsoft Edge, go to the three dots menu on the top right corner and click on Settings. Under the Clear browsing data section, select Choose what to clear. Check the box next to Cached data and files and click Clear.
How do I clear cache in Windows 10 using Google Chrome?
Open Google Chrome, go to the three dots menu on the top right corner and click on History. On the left pane, click on Clear browsing data. Select Cached images and files and click Clear data.
How do I clear cache in Windows 10 using Mozilla Firefox?
Open Mozilla Firefox, go to the three horizontal bars menu on the top right corner and click on Options. Under Privacy & Security, go to Cookies and Site Data section and click on Clear Data. Check the box next to Cached Web Content and click Clear.
Will clearing my cache delete my saved passwords?
No, clearing your cache will not delete your saved passwords. However, it will remove website preferences such as login status, language settings, and other customizations.
How often should I clear my cache?
It is recommended to clear your cache every once in a while or when encountering browser-related issues. However, clearing it too often may slow down your browsing experience.
Will clearing cache fix website errors?
Clearing cache can resolve website-related errors caused by outdated or corrupted data on your browser. However, if the issue lies on the website’s server, clearing your cache will not fix it.
Is there a shortcut to clearing cache?
Yes, most web browsers offer a keyboard shortcut to clear cache. For Windows, it is usually Ctrl + Shift + Delete. Mac users can use Command + Shift + Delete.
Does clearing cache affect website analytics?
Yes, clearing cache can affect website analytics as it removes data related to your browsing history and preferences. This may affect tracking and measurement of website traffic.
What happens after I clear my cache?
After clearing your cache, your browser will reload web pages and download the updated resources. You might need to re-enter login information and customize preferences again.
Can I choose which cache to clear?
Yes, most browsers offer the option to choose which cache to clear. You can clear the entire cache or choose to delete specific data such as cookies or cached images and files.
Will clearing cache delete my browsing history?
No, clearing cache will not delete your browsing history. However, it may remove website preferences and customizations.
Do I need to restart my browser after clearing cache?
No, restarting your browser is not required after clearing cache. However, reloading web pages may be necessary to see the updated resources.
How to Clear Cache in Windows
Are you experiencing slow internet browsing, unresponsive apps, or frequent crashes on your Windows computer? If yes, then it’s time to clear your cache. Cache is temporary data stored on your computer to load web pages faster and make your apps run smoothly. Over time, this cache data accumulates, leading to performance issues. In this article, we will guide you on how to clear cache on Windows.
Conclusion and Closing
In conclusion, clearing cache regularly is essential to keep your Windows computer running smoothly. It can help improve the performance of your browser and apps, free up valuable disk space, and prevent security risks. With the steps provided above, you can easily clear cache on Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7. Remember to do it periodically to ensure optimal performance and security of your system. We hope this article was helpful. So, go ahead and clear your cache now!
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope that we have provided you with the information you need to know about how to clear cache on Windows. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below. Until next time, happy computing!