How to Clear Cache on Computer Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever notice your computer running slower than usual or your apps taking forever to load? The culprit might be cache buildup. Over time, Windows 11 stores temporary files and cached data to speed things up — but too much of it can do the opposite.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to clear cache on your Windows 11 computer step-by-step using different built-in tools and methods. By the end, your PC will feel faster, cleaner, and more responsive.

What Is Cache in Windows 11?

Cache is a collection of temporary files that your system and apps store to help things load faster. For example, when you open a website or program, Windows saves some of its data locally so it can reopen more quickly next time.

But over time, these cached files can pile up — eating storage space and even slowing performance.

2. Why Clearing Cache Is Important

Clearing the cache can:

Free up valuable disk space.
Fix issues like app crashes or errors.
Improve performance and responsiveness.
Remove outdated files and data.
Help your system run smoother overall.

Think of it like cleaning out your closet — you get rid of old stuff to make room for what’s important.

3. Types of Cache in Windows 11

Windows 11 stores different types of cache, including:

Temporary system files
Windows Store cache
Browser cache
DNS cache
File Explorer history
System restore cache

Each serves a purpose, and we’ll show you how to clear them all safely.

4. Before You Begin

Before clearing cache:

Save your work.
Make sure no large installations or updates are running.
Back up important files (optional but smart).

Now let’s start cleaning!

5. Method 1: Clear Temporary Files Using Settings

This is the easiest way to clear junk from your PC.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System → Storage.
Click Temporary files.
Check items like Temporary files, Delivery Optimization Files, and Recycle Bin.
Click Remove files.

✅ Tip: Do this regularly to keep your computer clutter-free.

6. Method 2: Clear Cache with Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup is a classic tool that still works great in Windows 11.

Press Windows + S, type Disk Cleanup, and open it.
Select your system drive (usually C:).
Check all the boxes you want to clean (like Temporary files, Thumbnails, and System cache).
Click OK → Delete Files.

💡 Optional: Click Clean up system files to include Windows Update cache and old installations.

7. Method 3: Clear Windows Store Cache

The Microsoft Store also builds up cache that can slow app downloads or updates.

Press Windows + R to open Run.
Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
A black window will appear and disappear — then the Microsoft Store will open automatically.

That’s it! Your Store cache is cleared.

8. Method 4: Clear Browser Cache (Edge, Chrome, Firefox)

Your browser saves cache to load websites faster, but too much can slow it down.

For Microsoft Edge:

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

For Google Chrome:

Open Chrome → press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
Select Cached images and files.
Choose Time range → All time.
Click Clear data.

For Firefox:

Click the menu (☰) → Settings → Privacy & Security.
Under Cookies and Site Data, click Clear Data.
Check Cached Web Content, then Clear.

9. Method 5: Clear File Explorer History

File Explorer keeps track of recently accessed files and folders.

Open File Explorer.
Click View → Options → Change folder and search options.
Under the General tab, click Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.

Done! Your recent access list will be wiped clean.

10. Method 6: Clear System Restore Cache

System Restore points can take up gigabytes of space. You can delete old ones safely.

Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and open it.
Select your system drive (C:) → click Configure.
Click Delete to remove all restore points.
Click Apply → OK.

⚠️ Note: This deletes all existing restore points, so make a new one afterward if needed.

11. Method 7: Clear DNS Cache

If websites aren’t loading properly, your DNS cache might be corrupted.

Press Windows + S, type cmd, and Run as administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns
You’ll see: “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”

Now your network will fetch the latest site data.

12. Method 8: Clear Microsoft Edge Cache via Command

You can also clear Edge’s cache quickly via command:

Press Windows + R.
Type the following command and press Enter:

cmd /c "del /q/f/s %localappdata%\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default\Cache"
Restart Edge to see the results.

13. Method 9: Clear Cache Using Storage Sense

Storage Sense automatically deletes junk files on schedule.

Press Windows + I → System → Storage.
Turn on Storage Sense.
Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
Choose how often to clean (Daily, Weekly, or Monthly).
Click Run Storage Sense now.

Your PC will automatically stay optimized without manual work.

14. Method 10: Clear Prefetch and Temp Folders Manually

You can manually delete temporary and cached system files too.

Press Windows + R → type %temp% → press Enter.
Select all files (Ctrl + A) → Press Delete.
Do the same for these locations:
- C:\Windows\Temp
- C:\Windows\Prefetch

This frees up space instantly.

⚠️ Tip: Skip files that show “in use” warnings — those are system-related.

15. How Often Should You Clear Cache?

Ideally, clean your cache once a month.
If you browse or install apps frequently, do it every 2–3 weeks.

Storage Sense can automate this so you never have to remember.

16. Benefits of Clearing Cache

Faster system performance.
More available disk space.
Fewer app crashes or errors.
Smooth browsing and startup experience.
Better overall system health.

It’s like giving your PC a mini tune-up.

17. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Deleting important system files manually.
❌ Ignoring the cache for months.
❌ Skipping browser cache — it builds up fast.
❌ Forgetting to empty the Recycle Bin afterward.

Always double-check what you’re deleting.

18. Conclusion

Clearing cache on Windows 11 is one of the simplest ways to boost performance and free up storage. Whether you use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense, or go manual with the Temp folders, your system will thank you for it.

Make it a monthly habit, and you’ll keep your PC running like new — smooth, fast, and clutter-free.

19. FAQs

1. Will clearing cache delete my personal files?
No, clearing cache only removes temporary data — your personal files remain untouched.

2. How much space can I free up by clearing cache?
Depending on usage, you can free anywhere from 1 GB to 10 GB or more.

3. Is it safe to clear the Temp and Prefetch folders?
Yes, it’s completely safe. Windows automatically recreates necessary files when needed.

4. Does clearing cache make my computer faster?
Yes! It can noticeably improve performance and fix lagging apps or browsers.

5. Can I automate cache clearing on Windows 11?
Yes, enable Storage Sense under Settings → System → Storage to auto-clean junk files regularly.