Clear Cache in Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide

Clearing the cache in Windows 10 frees up disk space, fixes slow performance, and resolves issues with apps or web pages that won’t load correctly. This guide covers the most common caches—temporary files, the DNS cache, the Windows Store cache, and browser caches—with clear steps for each. You don’t need any special tools; just your Windows 10 PC and a few minutes.

What You’ll Need

• A Windows 10 PC with administrator access (for some steps).
• An internet connection (for DNS cache and browser steps).
• About 10–15 minutes of time.

Step-by-Step

1. Clear Temporary Files (Disk Cleanup)

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cleanmgr and press Enter.
3. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:) and click OK.
4. Wait for Disk Cleanup to calculate how much space you can free.
5. In the list, check the boxes for Temporary files, Thumbnails, Delivery Optimization Files, and Recycle Bin (if you’re sure you don’t need those items).
6. Click OK, then Delete Files to confirm.

2. Clear the DNS Cache

1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:
   ipconfig /flushdns
4. You should see the message: Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.

3. Clear the Windows Store Cache

1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. A blank Command Prompt window will open; wait for it to finish (it may take a minute). The Microsoft Store app will open automatically when done.
4. Close the Store window; the cache is cleared.

4. Clear Browser Cache (Edge, Chrome, Firefox)

Each browser has a slightly different path, but all are straightforward.

1. Microsoft Edge: Click the three-dot menu (⋯) → Settings → Privacy, search, and services → under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear → select Cached images and files → click Clear now.
2. Google Chrome: Click the three-dot menu (⋮) → More tools → Clear browsing data → choose All time in the time range dropdown → check Cached images and files → click Clear data.
3. Mozilla Firefox: Click the hamburger menu (☰) → Settings → Privacy & Security → under Cookies and Site Data, click Clear Data → check Cached Web Content → click Clear.

5. Clear the File Explorer Thumbnail Cache

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab at the top.
3. Click Options (on the right) to open Folder Options.
4. Go to the General tab, and under Privacy, click Clear next to “Clear File Explorer history.” This also clears the thumbnail cache.
5. Click OK to close.

Common Mistakes

• Not closing running apps: Some files in the temp folder are in use and can’t be deleted. Close all applications (especially browsers and Office) before running Disk Cleanup.
• Clearing the wrong cache: For example, flushing the DNS cache won’t free disk space; it only resets network resolution. Match the method to the problem: use Disk Cleanup for space, DNS flush for network issues, and browser clear for page loading problems.
• Forgetting to restart after clearing: Some caches are recreated immediately on next use. A restart ensures a clean slate and helps Windows rebuild caches correctly.
• Deleting the SoftwareDistribution folder manually: This can break Windows Update. Always use Disk Cleanup or the built-in tools, never delete system folders directly.

Tips

• Use Storage Sense: Go to Settings → System → Storage → turn on Storage Sense to automatically clear temporary files and recycle bin contents on a schedule.
• Set a reminder: Clearing caches monthly keeps your system tidy. Add a calendar reminder or use Task Scheduler to run Disk Cleanup automatically.
• Use the Disk Cleanup button for system files: In Disk Cleanup, click Clean up system files to also remove Windows Update leftovers and old driver packages. This often frees several gigabytes more.
• Know what not to clear: Don’t clear the “Downloads” folder or “Documents” unless you’re sure you don’t need them. Stick to the caches listed in this guide.

Troubleshooting

If clearing the cache doesn’t go as planned, here are common issues and fixes:

• Disk Cleanup hangs or takes forever: Close any open programs, especially antivirus scans, and try again. If it still hangs, restart your PC and run it in Safe Mode (hold Shift while clicking Restart → Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart → press 4).
• “Access Denied” when flushing DNS: You must run Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator. Right-click the Start button and choose the admin option.
• wsreset.exe doesn’t open the Store: Wait a few minutes; it may take time. If nothing happens, press Windows Key + R, type wsreset.exe again, and press Enter. If it still fails, check for Windows updates.
• Browser cache won’t clear: Some extensions or profiles can interfere. Try clearing in an InPrivate/Incognito window, or reset the browser settings. For Chrome, go to chrome://settings/reset.
• Still low on disk space after clearing: Use the Clean up system files option in Disk Cleanup, or run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup in an elevated Command Prompt to remove superseded Windows Update components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will clearing cache delete my passwords or saved logins?

No. Clearing the cache removes temporary files like images and scripts, not your saved passwords or login data. Those are stored separately in your browser’s password manager or Windows Credential Manager.

How often should I clear the cache?

For general maintenance, once a month is plenty. If you’re troubleshooting a specific issue (like a website not loading), clear the relevant cache immediately.

Does clearing cache speed up my PC?

It can, especially if disk space is very low (below 10% free). Clearing caches frees up space and can make file access faster. However, for major speed improvements, consider upgrading RAM or using an SSD.

What is the difference between cache and cookies?

Cache stores images, scripts, and other page elements to load pages faster. Cookies store small pieces of data like login sessions and preferences. Clearing both is often recommended, but you can clear one without the other.

Is it safe to clear all caches?

Yes, in general. Caches are temporary by design. The only downside is that you’ll need to re-download some files, and you may be logged out of some websites if you also clear cookies. System caches (like DNS and Store) are safe to clear.

Why does my cache keep coming back?

Because caches are recreated every time you use apps or browse the web. That’s normal. If you want to reduce cache buildup, you can limit browser cache size in settings or use Storage Sense to auto-clean regularly.

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