The Cache-Clearing Secret That Will Make Your Windows 10 PC Run Like New

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for clearing cache files in Windows 10. It includes four key parts:

1. Clearing cache and cookies in your web browser
2. Clearing system cache and temporary files in Windows 10
3. Handling specific types of cache like those for the Windows Store and DNS
4. Taking extra steps like setting up a system restore point and using third-party cleaning tools.

Summary Table

The Summary Table serves as a quick reference guide to the different methods for clearing cache in Windows 10, as detailed in the article. This table helps you understand which method is best suited for your needs and how cautious you should be while performing each task.

Clearing Browser Cache and Cookies

What are cache and cookies? They’re temporary data that your web browser stores to load websites more quickly. Over time, this data can take up space and even slow down your browser.

How to Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome

1. Launch Google Chrome.
2. Click on the three-dot icon located at the upper-right corner.
3. Go to More tools > Clear browsing data.
4. In Time range, select All time.
5. Check the box next to Cached images and files.
6. Confirm by clicking the Clear data button.

For Other Browsers

If you use Safari, Firefox, or another browser, consult their support sites for specific guidelines on clearing cache and cookies.

Clearing System Cache and Temporary Files

“System cache and temporary files serve a similar purpose to web cache but for your entire computer. These files speed up processes but can clog up your system over time.

Quick Cleanup of Temporary Files in Windows

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type %temp% and click OK.
3. Select and Delete files and folders.

Deep Cleanup Using Windows Settings

1. Right-click the Windows Start button.
2. Choose Settings.
3. Click System and then the Storage tab.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions after clicking Free up space now.

Advanced Cleanup with Disk Cleanup Utility

1. Press Windows + S and type Disk Cleanup.
2. Select your preferred drive and click OK.
3. For a more thorough cleanup, click Clean up system files.
4. Check the desired items to delete and finish by clicking OK.

Clearing Windows Store Cache and DNS Cache

The Windows Store Cache is specific to the Windows Store app. The DNS cache helps your computer find websites but sometimes can cause errors.

Clear Windows Store Cache

1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
2. Enter wsreset.exe and click OK.

Flush DNS Cache

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type ipconfig/flushdns and press Enter.

Creating a System Restore Point

You can use a System Restore Point to roll back changes if something goes wrong.

Creating a System Restore Point

1. In the search bar, type restore.
2. Click Create a restore point.
3. In the System Protection tab, select your system drive.
4. Click Delete to remove previous restore points, if desired.

Read our detailed guide on this process: How to Create a Restore Point.

Third-Party Cleanup Tools

Third-party tools offer more ways to manage and remove temporary files from your computer.

1. Outbyte PC Repair:
   • This software can scan for issues like redundant files, system cache, and temporary internet files.
   • Review the scan results and choose which files or issues you want to address.
   • Follow on-screen instructions to complete the cleanup process.
2. MiniTool Partition Wizard:
   • This tool includes a Space Analyzer to help you identify unnecessary files.
   • Pick a drive to analyze and click Scan.
   • Delete unnecessary files after scanning.
3. CCleaner:
   • This application allows you to analyze and remove unnecessary files.
   • Click ‘Analyze’ to identify files that can be deleted.
   • After analysis, click on ‘Run Cleaner’ to remove the selected files.

By including various third-party options such as MiniTool Partition Wizard and Outbyte PC Repair, you can choose the tool that best suits your needs for maintaining a clean, optimized system.

Conclusion

This guide offers a structured approach for managing and deleting cache files in Windows 10. The guide covers four critical areas:

1. Web Browser Cache and Cookies: Specifically shows steps for Google Chrome, with advice for those using other browsers.
2. System Cache and Temporary Files: Explains quick and advanced ways to remove system-level cache that could bog down your machine.
3. Specialized Cache: Discusses cleaning up unique caches like Windows Store and DNS cache, which have their own sets of rules and locations.
4. Extra Considerations: Introduces the concept of System Restore Points and suggests third-party cleanup tools, each with their own specific functionalities.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to maintain a cleaner, faster, and more efficient computer. With options ranging from built-in Windows utilities to specialized third-party tools like Oudbyte PC Repair and CCleaner, this guide provides a variety of methods for achieving a more optimized system.

Please Note:

This guide aims to help you manage and clear cache in Windows 10. Back up your important data before making changes. If you encounter issues not addressed in this guide, seeking professional advice is recommended