How to Clear Cache on Windows 11/10 PC (Fast Computer)

A cache is a temporary storage area that Windows and applications use to store frequently accessed data for faster performance. It helps your PC, apps, and web browsers load content more quickly by keeping essential files locally instead of downloading or recreating them each time. However, over time, these cached files can accumulate and take up a significant amount of disk space. Old or corrupted cache data can also slow down system performance, cause update issues, or make applications behave unexpectedly. Clearing the cache on your Windows PC helps free up valuable storage, resolve performance glitches, and refresh system processes. This article explores different types of cache on Windows and how to safely clear them step by step.

Clear Windows Update Cache

The Windows Update Cache stores temporary files that Windows uses when downloading and installing updates. If these files get corrupted, it can prevent future updates from installing properly or cause slow system performance.

To Clear Windows Update Cache:

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
• Scroll down and find Windows Update.
• Right-click on it and select Stop.
• Now open File Explorer and navigate to: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download
• Here, delete all files inside the Download folder.
• Go back to Services, right-click on Windows Update, and select Start again.

Clearing this cache forces Windows to download fresh update files from Microsoft servers, which also helps fix issues with stuck or failed updates.

Clear Microsoft Store Cache

The Microsoft Store Cache can slow down app downloads, installations, or updates if it becomes bloated or corrupted. To Clear Microsoft Store Cache:

• Press Win + R, type wsreset.exe, and hit Enter.
• A command prompt window will open briefly; wait until it closes automatically.
• The Microsoft Store will then launch — your cache has been cleared.

Alternatively, you can manually delete the cache folder located in: C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache.

Clear Temporary Files Cache

Temporary files include app installation leftovers, log files, and temporary system data that build up over time.

• Press Win + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
• Select all files (Ctrl + A) and delete them.
• Next, type temp (without the %) in the Run box and delete files there too.
• Finally, open File Explorer and go to: C:\Windows\Temp and delete everything there.

You can also use the Disk Cleanup Tool or Storage Sense (Settings > System > Storage) to automatically remove temporary files.

Clear Windows Thumbnail Cache

The Thumbnail Cache stores preview images for files and folders in File Explorer. If you notice blank or incorrect thumbnails, clearing this cache can fix the issue.

• Press Win + S and search for Disk Cleanup.
• Select your system drive (usually C:).
• In the list, check Thumbnails.
• Click OK, then Delete Files.

Alternatively, you can delete it manually by navigating to:

“C:\Users\Username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer”

And select all files that start with icon cache and delete them permanently by pressing “Shift+delete”.

Clear Browser Cache (Edge, Chrome, Firefox)

Browsers store cached images, cookies, and browsing data to make websites load faster. However, too much cached data can slow browsing and cause loading issues.

For Microsoft Edge:

• Open Edge → Click Menu (⋯) → Settings.
• Go to Privacy, search, and services.
• Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.
• Select Cached images and files, then Clear now.

For Google Chrome:

• Open Chrome → Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
• Choose All time as the time range.
• Check the Cached images and files, then click Clear data.

For Mozilla Firefox:

• Open Firefox → Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
• Select Cache and click Clear Now.

Clear DNS Cache

The DNS Cache stores website IP addresses to speed up loading times. However, outdated or corrupted DNS records can lead to connectivity or “Page not found” errors.

• Open Command Prompt as an Administrator.
• Type the command ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter:
• You’ll see the message “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”

Restart your router for a complete network refresh.

Clear Windows System Restore Cache

System restore points can take up significant space over time. Although useful, older restore points can be safely deleted once newer ones are created.

• Press Win + S and search for System Protection.
• Click Configure under your system drive.
• Select Delete to remove all restore points.
• You can also reduce the Max Usage slider to limit the space used by restore points.

If you do, be sure to create another restore point right away!

Clear Prefetch Files

The Prefetch folder stores data about frequently used apps to make them load faster. However, over time, it can contain outdated entries that slow startup.

• Press Win + R, type prefetch, and press Enter.
• Delete all files inside the folder.
• (Optional) Reboot your computer.

Clear Windows Delivery Optimization Cache

Windows uses Delivery Optimization to share update files between PCs. This feature can accumulate large amounts of cached update data.

• Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files.
• Check Delivery Optimization Files.
• Click Remove files.

Use Storage Sense for Automatic Cache Cleaning

Windows 11 and 10 include Storage Sense, a built-in feature that automatically clears temporary and cached files.

• Go to Settings > System > Storage.
• Turn on Storage Sense.
• Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
• Customize how often you want Windows to delete temporary files.

FAQ: Clear Cache on Windows PC

1. Does clearing cache delete important files?
No, clearing cache only removes temporary and redundant files. It won’t delete your personal data, applications, or essential system files.

2. How often should I clear cache in Windows 11 or 10?
For optimal performance, clear cache once every 1–2 months, or whenever your PC feels slow or storage space is running low.

3. Is it safe to delete Temp and Prefetch files?
Yes. These folders store temporary data that Windows automatically recreates as needed. Deleting them is completely safe and often improves performance.

4. Why does my computer slow down after clearing cache?
Initially, Windows might take slightly longer to reopen frequently used apps or websites as new cache is rebuilt. Performance typically improves after a few reboots.

5. Can I use third-party PC cleaners to remove cache?
Yes, tools like CCleaner or BleachBit can automate cache cleaning. However, always use trusted software and back up your data before running such tools.

6. Will clearing DNS cache speed up internet browsing?
Yes, it can. Clearing the DNS cache removes outdated IP records, ensuring your browser connects to the most recent and correct web addresses.