If your Windows 11 computer feels slower than usual, apps are behaving strangely, websites aren’t loading correctly, or you’re running low on storage, clearing cached data may help. Windows and individual applications constantly create temporary files and cached information to make everyday tasks faster. Over time, some of that data can become outdated or simply take up unnecessary space.

In this How to Clear Computer Cache Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide, you’ll learn how to safely clear different types of cache on a Windows 11 PC. We’ll cover temporary files, Windows Update cache, DNS cache, Microsoft Store cache, thumbnail cache, browser cache, and other stored data.

The important thing to remember is that there isn’t one single “computer cache.” Windows has several different caches, and each one serves a different purpose. You don’t necessarily need to clear all of them every time your computer feels slow.

Let’s look at the safest methods first.

What Is Cache on a Windows 11 Computer?

A cache is temporary or frequently accessed data stored so your computer or an application can retrieve it more quickly later.

For example, your web browser may save parts of websites locally. Windows may keep thumbnail previews, temporary installation files, and other information that can speed up certain tasks.

Cache is normally useful.

Think of it like keeping frequently used items on your desk instead of putting everything into a storage cabinet. The items are easier to access, but eventually your desk can become cluttered.

Clearing cache removes some of that temporary information so Windows or the application can rebuild it when necessary.

Why Should You Clear Cache in Windows 11?

You don’t need to clear cache constantly, but there are situations where it can help.

You might clear cached data when:

• Windows is running low on storage
• An application behaves unexpectedly
• A website displays outdated information
• Microsoft Store apps have problems
• DNS-related connection issues occur
• Thumbnail previews are incorrect
• Windows Update encounters temporary problems
• Temporary files have accumulated

Clearing cache can also be useful when troubleshooting a specific problem.

Does Clearing Cache Make Windows 11 Faster?

Sometimes, but don’t expect a dramatic performance boost from deleting every cached file.

Cache exists partly to improve performance. Removing it can temporarily make certain tasks slower because Windows or applications need to recreate the data.

Clearing unnecessary temporary files can free storage, and troubleshooting a corrupted cache can fix application or system problems.

If your PC is consistently slow, however, you should also investigate other causes such as limited RAM, insufficient storage, startup applications, outdated drivers, malware, or aging hardware.

How to Clear Temporary Files in Windows 11

Temporary files are one of the safest categories to clean.

Windows stores temporary data created by the operating system and applications.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press:

Windows + I

This opens Windows Settings.

Step 2: Open Storage

Select:

System → Storage

Windows will analyze your storage and display categories showing how disk space is being used.

Step 3: Open Temporary Files

Select:

Temporary files

Windows will scan the computer and show categories of files that may be removable.

You may see items such as:

• Temporary files
• Thumbnails
• Delivery Optimization Files
• Windows Update Cleanup
• DirectX Shader Cache
• Recycle Bin
• Temporary internet files
• Previous Windows installation files

The exact list varies depending on your PC.

Step 4: Review the Categories

Don’t blindly select everything.

Read the description for each category.

For example, deleting items from the Recycle Bin permanently removes files that are currently stored there.

Similarly, previous Windows installation files may be useful if you recently upgraded and want the ability to return to an earlier installation.

Step 5: Remove the Selected Files

Select the categories you want to clean.

Then select:

Remove files

Windows will delete the selected temporary data.

How to Clear Cache Using Disk Cleanup

Windows 11 also includes the traditional Disk Cleanup utility.

Step 1: Search for Disk Cleanup

Open Start and search for:

Disk Cleanup

Open the application.

Step 2: Select the Drive

If Windows asks you to choose a drive, select the drive containing your Windows installation, usually C:.

Step 3: Select Files to Clean

Disk Cleanup will calculate how much space can be recovered.

You may see options such as:

• Downloaded Program Files
• Temporary Internet Files
• DirectX Shader Cache
• Delivery Optimization Files
• Recycle Bin
• Temporary files
• Thumbnails

Review the options carefully.

Step 4: Start Cleanup

Select OK and confirm that you want to delete the selected files.

Disk Cleanup will remove the chosen data.

How to Clear DNS Cache in Windows 11

DNS cache is different from normal temporary file cache.

Windows stores recent DNS lookups so it doesn’t have to repeatedly ask a DNS server for the same information.

Sometimes this cached information can become outdated.

Clearing it can help with certain website or network-resolution problems.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

Open Start and search for:

Command Prompt

You can open it normally for this command.

Step 2: Run the DNS Flush Command

Enter:

ipconfig /flushdns

Press Enter.

Windows should report that the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed.

That’s it.

You don’t need to delete random files from Windows folders to clear DNS cache.

How to Clear Microsoft Store Cache

If the Microsoft Store isn’t opening correctly, downloads are stuck, or Store content isn’t updating properly, resetting its cache may help.

Windows includes a utility called WSReset.

Step 1: Open Run

Press:

Windows + R

Step 2: Enter WSReset

Type:

wsreset.exe

Press Enter.

A command window may appear briefly.

After the process finishes, Microsoft Store should open automatically.

This method is specifically intended to reset Microsoft Store cache.

How to Clear Browser Cache in Windows 11

Your web browser stores cached website data to speed up page loading.

If a website looks outdated or behaves incorrectly, clearing browser cache can sometimes fix the issue.

The exact steps depend on the browser.

Clear Cache in Microsoft Edge

Open Edge.

Press:

Ctrl + Shift + Delete

A browsing-data window will appear.

Choose the time range you want to clear.

Select the option for cached images and files.

Then select the button to clear the data.

Be careful when selecting other categories because clearing cookies or saved browsing information can sign you out of websites.

Clear Cache in Google Chrome

Open Chrome.

Press:

Ctrl + Shift + Delete

Select the desired time range.

Choose Cached images and files.

Then clear the selected data.

You can leave cookies and passwords untouched if you only want to clear cached files.

Clear Cache in Mozilla Firefox

Open Firefox.

Press:

Ctrl + Shift + Delete

Choose the appropriate time range.

Select the cached web content option and clear the data.

The wording can vary between browser versions.

How to Clear Thumbnail Cache in Windows 11

Windows creates thumbnails so File Explorer can quickly display previews of photos, videos, and other files.

If thumbnails appear incorrect, outdated, or fail to load, clearing the thumbnail cache can help.

Using Storage Settings

Open:

Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files

Look for:

Thumbnails

Select it.

Then choose Remove files.

Windows will rebuild thumbnails as needed.

The first time you browse folders containing many images afterward, Windows may take a little longer to recreate the previews.

How to Clear Windows Update Cache

Windows Update uses temporary files while downloading and preparing updates.

If an update repeatedly fails or becomes stuck, clearing the Windows Update download cache can sometimes help.

This is a more advanced troubleshooting method because it involves stopping Windows Update services and removing temporary update files.

Stop Windows Update Services

Open Terminal or Command Prompt as administrator.

You can stop the Windows Update service with:

net stop wuauserv

Depending on the troubleshooting situation, you may also need to stop related services.

The Windows Update cache is commonly stored within the Windows system folders.

Because manually modifying system folders can cause problems if done incorrectly, use this method when you’re specifically troubleshooting Windows Update rather than as routine maintenance.

After clearing the appropriate update cache, restart the relevant services.

If you’re not comfortable with command-line administration, Windows’ built-in update troubleshooting tools are a safer starting point.

How to Clear App Cache in Windows 11

Different applications store their own cached data.

The method varies by application.

For Microsoft Store applications, you can often reset or repair the app through Windows Settings.

Go to:

Settings → Apps → Installed apps

Find the application.

Select the three-dot menu next to it.

Choose:

Advanced options

Depending on the application, you may see options such as:

• Terminate
• Repair
• Reset

Repair vs Reset

Repair attempts to fix the application without removing its data.

Reset is more extensive and can remove application data and restore the app to its default state.

If you’re troubleshooting an app, try Repair first when available.

Use Reset only when you’re comfortable losing the app’s stored local data.

How to Clear File Explorer Cache

File Explorer maintains various pieces of information to make navigation more convenient.

If File Explorer behaves strangely, you can reset some of its history.

Open File Explorer.

Select the three-dot menu and open its options.

Under the relevant privacy settings, you can clear File Explorer history.

This doesn’t erase your personal files.

It removes stored history information related to File Explorer activity.

How to Clear Windows Clipboard History

Windows 11 can store multiple copied items in clipboard history.

Press:

Windows + V

If clipboard history is enabled, you can manage stored items there.

You can also clear clipboard data through Windows Settings.

Search Settings for Clipboard and use the available clear option.

Remember that clearing clipboard data removes copied items you may want to paste later.

How to Clear Cached Data From the Recycle Bin

The Recycle Bin isn’t technically the same thing as a cache, but it can consume significant storage.

If you have already confirmed that you don’t need the deleted files, empty the Recycle Bin.

Right-click the Recycle Bin on the desktop.

Select:

Empty Recycle Bin

Windows will permanently remove the items stored there.

Don’t use this option if you may still need to recover something.

How to Clear Cache With Storage Sense

Windows 11 includes Storage Sense, which can automatically remove unnecessary temporary files.

This can be more convenient than manually clearing cache every week.

Open:

Settings → System → Storage → Storage Sense

Turn Storage Sense on.

You can configure Windows to automatically manage temporary files and other unnecessary data.

This helps prevent your drive from becoming cluttered without requiring constant manual cleanup.

How to Clear Cache Without Deleting Personal Files

If you’re concerned about accidentally removing important data, start with Windows’ built-in temporary-file tools.

Generally safer cleanup categories include:

• Temporary files
• Thumbnail cache
• DirectX Shader Cache
• Delivery Optimization files
• Windows temporary data

Be more cautious with:

• Downloads
• Recycle Bin
• Previous Windows installation files
• Application reset options
• Personal folders

Always read the description before deleting a category.

Should You Delete Everything in the Temp Folder?

You may find instructions online telling you to manually delete everything from Windows temporary folders.

That isn’t necessary for normal cache maintenance.

Windows manages temporary files automatically, and some files may be in use.

If Windows says a file cannot be deleted, don’t repeatedly force the deletion.

Skip the file and allow the system or application to handle it.

Using Settings and Disk Cleanup is generally a safer approach for routine maintenance.

How Often Should You Clear Windows 11 Cache?

There is no universal schedule.

You don’t need to clear your cache every day or even every week.

Consider clearing specific cached data when:

• You’re troubleshooting a problem
• Storage space is getting low
• A website isn’t displaying correctly
• DNS information appears outdated
• Microsoft Store is malfunctioning
• Windows Update is having trouble
• An application has corrupted temporary data

For routine maintenance, Storage Sense can handle many temporary files automatically.

Does Clearing Cache Delete Passwords?

Usually, clearing cached images and files doesn’t delete saved passwords.

However, browser cleanup tools allow you to select multiple types of browsing data.

If you select passwords, cookies, autofill information, or other categories, those items may be removed.

Before clicking the final clear button, review exactly what you’ve selected.

If you only want to fix a website display problem, clearing cached images and files may be enough.

Does Clearing Cache Delete Personal Files?

Normally, clearing standard Windows cache doesn’t delete personal documents, photos, videos, or other files.

However, some cleanup categories can remove data you may still want.

For example, emptying the Recycle Bin permanently removes deleted files.

Removing the Downloads category can also delete files stored there.

That’s why it’s important to review the cleanup list before confirming.

What to Do After Clearing Cache

After cleaning cached data, restart Windows if you’re troubleshooting a system problem.

Then test the issue again.

For example:

• Open the website that wasn’t loading correctly.
• Try the Microsoft Store again.
• Check whether Windows Update works.
• Reopen the problematic application.
• Browse folders to see whether thumbnails rebuild correctly.

Remember that the first launch after clearing a cache can sometimes be slightly slower because the application needs to recreate its temporary data.

Common Cache-Clearing Mistakes to Avoid

Deleting Random System Files

Don’t manually delete unfamiliar files from Windows system folders just because someone online says they’re cache files.

Clearing Browser Cookies Unnecessarily

Cookies can contain login sessions and website preferences.

If you’re troubleshooting a cached webpage, you may not need to clear cookies.

Emptying the Recycle Bin Without Checking

Deleted files may still be recoverable from the Recycle Bin. Emptying it removes that easy recovery option.

Deleting Downloads Automatically

Your Downloads folder can contain important files.

Review it before including it in a cleanup operation.

Expecting a Huge Speed Increase

Cache cleanup isn’t a replacement for upgrading hardware or fixing a deeper performance issue.

Cache Types in Windows 11 at a Glance

Cache Type	Purpose	When to Clear
Temporary files	Stores temporary system/app data	When storage is low
DNS cache	Stores domain lookups	Network or DNS problems
Browser cache	Stores website resources	Website display problems
Thumbnail cache	Stores file previews	Thumbnail problems
Microsoft Store cache	Supports Store operations	Store problems
Windows Update cache	Stores update-related data	Update troubleshooting
App cache	Speeds up application operations	Application problems
Clipboard data	Stores copied content	Privacy or troubleshooting

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clear all cache on Windows 11?

There isn’t one button that clears every cache on Windows 11 because different system components and applications maintain separate caches. You can start with Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files, then clear specific caches such as DNS, browser, Microsoft Store, or thumbnails when necessary.

Does clearing cache make Windows 11 faster?

It can free storage and occasionally fix problems caused by outdated or corrupted cached data. However, clearing cache doesn’t guarantee a major performance improvement. Persistent slowness may have another cause.

What is the easiest way to clear cache in Windows 11?

The easiest general method is to open Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files, review the available categories, and remove the temporary data you no longer need.

How do I clear DNS cache in Windows 11?

Open Command Prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns. Windows will clear the local DNS resolver cache, which can help troubleshoot certain website and network-resolution problems.

Will clearing Windows 11 cache delete my files?

Normal temporary-file cleanup shouldn’t delete your personal files, but some cleanup categories can remove data such as Recycle Bin contents or Downloads. Always review the selected categories before confirming deletion.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clear computer cache on Windows 11 can help you reclaim storage and troubleshoot certain Windows, application, browser, and network problems. However, remember that cache isn’t automatically bad. Windows and your applications use cached data for a reason: it can make frequently performed tasks faster.

Instead of deleting everything indiscriminately, clear the specific cache connected to the problem you’re experiencing.

For general cleanup, start with Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files. If you’re dealing with a DNS issue, use ipconfig /flushdns. Microsoft Store problems may respond to wsreset.exe, while browser problems can often be addressed through the browser’s own cache-clearing controls.

For ongoing maintenance, Windows 11’s Storage Sense can automatically manage many temporary files.

The safest approach is simple: understand what you’re deleting, back up important data, and use Windows’ built-in cleanup tools whenever possible.

Quick Takeaways

• Windows 11 uses several different types of cache.
• There is no single cache folder that contains everything.
• Temporary files can be cleared through Settings → System → Storage.
• Disk Cleanup provides another built-in cleanup option.
• Use ipconfig /flushdns to clear DNS cache.
• wsreset.exe can reset Microsoft Store cache.
• Browsers have their own cache-clearing tools.
• Thumbnail cache can be removed through Temporary Files.
• Storage Sense can automate routine cleanup.
• Don’t delete unfamiliar Windows system files manually.
• Review Downloads and Recycle Bin before removing them.
• Clearing cache can solve some problems but isn’t a guaranteed performance upgrade.