How to Clear Cache Files in Windows 10 and 11

Quick Tips

• Clearing temporary files using the Disk Cleanup tool is an effective way to remove cache on your Windows 10 or 11 PC.
• The process of clearing browser cache may vary depending on whether you are using Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or another browser.
• While clearing the cache helps free up storage space, doing so too frequently can slow down your computing experience.

Method 1: Clear Temporary Files on PC

Windows includes a built-in the Disk Cleanup tool that help you delete temporary files clogging up your storage space. Here’s how to use it.

Step 1: Click the search icon on the taskbar, type in disk cleanup, and select the first result that appears.

Step 2: Use the drop-down menu to select a drive from which you wish to clear temporary files. Then, click OK.

Step 3: Under Files to delete, use the checkboxes to select the temporary files you want to remove. You can select a file type to view its description.

Step 4: After you select relevant options, you’ll see how much total storage those files occupy. Then, click OK to proceed.

Step 5: When a confirmation prompt appears, click the Delete Files button.

Method 2: Clear Windows Store Cache

The Windows Store on your PC creates cache files whenever you download or update apps. Over time, these files can take up significant space. Fortunately, you can clear this cache to free up storage space.

To clear the Windows Store cache, press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog. Then, type WSReset.exe in the box and press Enter. A blank window will appear for a few seconds. Wait for the process to complete, and the Windows Store will launch automatically.

Method 3: Clear Location Cache

You can also clear the location cache in Windows, which includes your location history data collected by the system. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Use the Windows key + I shortcut to open the Settings app and head to Privacy & security > Location.

Step 2: Scroll down and click the Clear button next to Location history.

Method 4: Clear DNS Cache

The DNS cache contains information about previous DNS lookups on your PC or web browser. You can delete the DNS cache in a few simple steps outlined below.

Step 1: Open the search menu, type in cmd and select Run as administrator.

Step 2: Type the command mentioned below and press Enter.

ipconfig/flushDNS

Once the process is finished, you’ll see a message that reads “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”

Method 5: Clear Browser Cache

When you surf the internet, your browser creates cache files to speed up the sites you visit frequently. While this data is intended to enhance performance, it can eventually slow down your browser.

To clear browser cache in Google Chrome or Edge, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete keys to quickly open the “Clear browsing data” panel. Then, select All time in the Time range option and check the box that reads Cached images and files. Finally, click the Clear data button at the bottom.

Similarly, you can clear cache in Firefox, Brave, or any other browser you may be using.