How to Clear Cache on Windows 11- Complete Guide

In this guide, we will go over how to clear cache on Windows 11 via different methods. Also, Learn which methods of cache clearing work best for Windows 11 and see improvements in performance, free up space, and resolve issues at the same time. We also cover clearing out system cache, app cache, and Microsoft Store cache.

How to Clear Cache on Windows 11

Clear cache on Windows 11 is a crucial task to improve system performance, free up space, and resolve various technical issues. Cache files are temporary data that apps and browsers save to speed up access to resources. Although these files do help performance at the time, over time, they may accumulate and even cause your computer to run slowly.

Why should you clear Cache on Windows 11?

Before we discuss how to clear cache on Windows 11, it is essential to understand the reason for clearing the cache on this operating system. While cache files do serve a purpose, which is to speed up program performance by storing frequently used info on the local drive, over time these files also take up large amounts of space and in some cases can cause issues like slow performance or file corruption. Through regular cache clear out, you can:

Free up storage space: Over time, cached files can take up a great deal of space.
Improve performance: Cleaning out the cache makes your system run better.
Fix errors: At times, faulty cache files cause issues with apps or browsers.

Here is a look at various methods for clear cache on Windows 11.

1. Clear Cache Using Disk Cleanup Tool

Windows 11 includes a feature named Disk Cleanup, which is used to remove system cache, temporary files, and out-of-date data. Here is how to use it:

Search for Disk Cleanup: Hold down the Windows key + S to open the search bar, type in “Disk Cleanup,” and choose the app.
Select Drive: Select the drive which you would like to clean (usually C:) and press OK.
Choose Files to Delete: The tool reports out a list of files which may include Temporary and System files, among others.
Clear Cache: Check which boxes next to the types of temporary files you want to delete, then click OK. The tool will remove what you selected upon confirmation.

This method clears out the system cache and also free some space without the use of any third-party software.

2. Clear Windows Store Cache

If you have issues with the Microsoft Store, try clearing its cache, which may help. To do this:

Open Run Dialog: Press Windows + R to open Run.
Run WSReset: Type in wsreset.exe and press Enter, which in turn will reset the Store’s cache without affecting your apps.

Once the cache is cleared, the Microsoft Store will open.

3. Clear System Cache via Settings

Windows 11, which is the latest update to the operating system, includes the feature to clear out specific cache files in the Settings app. To do this:

Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Go to System: On the left-hand side, go to System and then choose Storage.
Temporary Files: In Storage Management, click on Temporary files.
Delete Cache Files: Check off the cache types which you wish to delete, for example, Temporary files or System files, then click Remove files.

4. Clear Thumbnails Cache

Clear cache on Windows 11 includes a feature to images, videos, and documents, which in turn speeds up their load time. If you experience slow performance or see that there are issues, clearing the thumbnail cache may help:

Open Disk Cleanup: Go to the Disk Cleanup as before.
Select Thumbnails: Check the box for Thumbnails, then press OK.

Conclusion

Clear cache on Windows 11 is a great way to keep your system fast and efficient. If you are seeing issues with performance or just want to free up some space, cache clearing is a solution. From the included Disk Space Clean tool to individual app cache clear and Microsoft Store, we have the methods to get your Windows 11 back to optimal performance. It is a practice that, when made routine, will see your PC run at its best.

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