How to Clear Memory Cache Windows 11: Easy Steps for Optimal Performance

If your Windows 11 PC feels sluggish or unresponsive over time, one of the quickest ways to speed it up is by clearing the memory cache. Cached data helps your system load files faster, but when too much accumulates, it can slow things down instead of speeding them up.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to clear memory cache in Windows 11 step-by-step — from system and RAM cache to temporary files and DNS cache — to boost performance and reclaim valuable resources.

Let’s dive right in!

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What Is Memory Cache in Windows 11?

The memory cache is a temporary storage area where Windows stores frequently accessed data, applications, and files. This allows your system to load programs faster instead of fetching data from the hard drive each time.

However, over time, the cache can grow large and contain outdated or unnecessary files — which can actually slow down your computer.

Types of Cache in Windows 11

There are several types of cache that affect system performance:

Clearing these caches periodically ensures your system stays responsive and optimized.

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Why Should You Clear Memory Cache in Windows 11?

Just like cleaning up a cluttered desk helps you focus, clearing cache helps Windows run smoothly.

Here’s why it matters:

• 🚀 Boost performance: Frees up RAM and CPU resources.

• 🧹 Reclaim storage space: Deletes unnecessary cached data.

• 🔄 Fix lag or freezing issues: Clears corrupted cache files.

• 🌐 Resolve network problems: Refreshes DNS and system connections.

• ⚙️ Improve system stability: Prevents slow startups and random crashes.

Think of it as giving your computer a “refresh button” — clearing the digital clutter so it can breathe again.

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How to Clear Memory Cache Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Now let’s go step-by-step through different methods to clear cache in Windows 11 effectively.

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🧠 1. Clear RAM Cache Using Task Manager

RAM cache can get filled with background processes that consume memory even when you’re not using them.

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

2. Click the Processes tab.

3. Sort by Memory to see which apps use the most RAM.

4. Right-click unnecessary processes → select End Task.

✅ Tip: Don’t end system processes you don’t recognize — only close apps you’ve opened manually.

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💻 2. Clear Temporary Files Cache

Windows 11 stores tons of temporary files from updates, installations, and apps.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Go to System > Storage.

3. Click Temporary files.

4. Check boxes for Temporary files, Downloads, and Recycle Bin.

5. Click Remove files.

✅ This can instantly free several gigabytes of space and improve performance.

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⚡ 3. Use Disk Cleanup Tool to Clear System Cache

Disk Cleanup is one of the oldest yet most effective built-in tools for clearing cache.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S, type Disk Cleanup, and select it.

2. Choose your C: drive → click OK.

3. Select items like:

   • Temporary Internet Files

   • System created Windows Error Reporting

   • Delivery Optimization Files

   • Temporary files

4. Click Clean up system files for deeper cleaning.

5. Click OK > Delete Files.

💡 Pro tip: Use Disk Cleanup monthly to keep your system lean and fast.

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🌐 4. Clear DNS Cache

If websites load slowly or network errors occur, clearing your DNS cache can help.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R → type:

   cmd


2. Right-click Command Prompt → choose Run as administrator.

3. Type the following command and hit Enter:

   ipconfig /flushdns


4. You’ll see:
   “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.”

✅ This resets network cache and can speed up browsing or fix connection issues.

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🗑️ 5. Clear Prefetch and Temporary System Cache

Windows uses Prefetch and Temp folders to store frequently used app data. You can safely clear them.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R → type:

   prefetch


2. Press Enter → delete all files inside (press Ctrl + A > Delete).

3. Next, open the Run box again and type:

   %temp%


4. Delete all files inside this folder.

5. Repeat with:

   temp


💡 Note: Some files may not delete — skip those in use by the system.

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🧩 6. Clear Microsoft Store Cache

If Microsoft Store apps are lagging or won’t update, clear their cache.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R → type:

   wsreset.exe


2. Press Enter.

3. A blank Command Prompt window will appear — wait until it closes automatically.

4. Microsoft Store will open automatically once cleared.

✅ This refreshes Store performance and resolves common app issues.

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🧰 7. Clear Cache Using Storage Sense (Automatic Option)

Windows 11 includes Storage Sense, which automatically deletes cached and temporary files.

To enable it:

1. Press Windows + I → go to System > Storage.

2. Toggle Storage Sense ON.

3. Click Storage Sense settings.

4. Customize cleanup frequency:

   • Run Storage Sense: Every day/week/month

   • Delete temporary files automatically

   • Clear recycle bin and Downloads folder

✅ This keeps your system automatically optimized — no manual effort needed.

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⚙️ 8. Use Command Prompt to Clear Memory Cache

You can clear system memory using Command Prompt commands.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).

2. Type:

   echo %temp%
del /q/f/s %temp%\*


   and press Enter.

3. To clear the standby memory, type:

   Rundll32.exe advapi32.dll,ProcessIdleTasks


4. Restart your PC.

✅ These commands force Windows to clear unused cache and free up RAM instantly.

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🔋 9. Clear Page File (Virtual Memory Cache)

Windows uses pagefile.sys as virtual memory. Clearing it can fix memory errors.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R → type:

   sysdm.cpl


2. Go to the Advanced tab → under Performance, click Settings.

3. Open the Advanced tab again → click Change under Virtual Memory.

4. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.

5. Choose No paging file → click Set.

6. Restart your computer.

After reboot, re-enable the paging file to let Windows recreate it fresh.

⚠️ Note: Do this only if you understand how virtual memory works — improper settings may affect performance.

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🧼 10. Clear Browser Cache (Edge, Chrome, Firefox)

Browser cache stores site data and cookies that can slow down web browsing.

For Microsoft Edge:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.

2. Select:

   • Browsing history

   • Cookies and other site data

   • Cached images and files

3. Click Clear now.

For Google Chrome:

1. Click ⋮ (Menu) > Settings > Privacy and Security.

2. Choose Clear browsing data.

3. Select Cached images and files → click Clear data.

✅ Do this weekly to keep browsing smooth.

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🔄 11. Restart Your PC to Flush Cache Memory

Sometimes, the simplest fix works best. Restarting Windows 11 clears many temporary caches and resets processes.

Just click Start > Power > Restart.

It’s like giving your PC a quick “refresh” for smoother operation.

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🧮 12. Use Windows Terminal to Clear Cache in One Go

If you prefer a single shortcut method, you can automate cache cleaning via PowerShell.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X → choose Windows Terminal (Admin).

2. Copy and paste this script:

   Remove-Item -Path "$env:temp\*" -Recurse -Force
Clear-DnsClientCache
Start-Sleep -Seconds 2
Restart-Service -Name "explorer"


3. Press Enter.

This will:

• Clear temporary files

• Flush DNS

• Restart File Explorer

✅ Result: Instant cache cleanup and faster performance.

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Performance After Clearing Cache

After completing the steps, you’ll notice:

• Faster app launches

• Reduced lag and freezing

• Improved multitasking

• More available disk space

• Smoother web browsing

💡 Tip: Regularly clear cache every 2–4 weeks for best results.

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Best Practices for Cache Management in Windows 11

• 🗓️ Schedule Storage Sense for automatic cleanup.

• 🧠 Close unused background apps to reduce RAM use.

• 🧍 Restart regularly to reset caches naturally.

• 📦 Keep 15–20% free disk space to prevent slowdowns.

• ⚡ Use trusted cleanup tools like CCleaner or BleachBit (optional).

These habits will help maintain long-term system performance.

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Common Issues and Fixes When Clearing Cache

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Conclusion

Clearing the memory cache in Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to boost speed, free up resources, and improve stability.

Whether you use Task Manager, Disk Cleanup, Command Prompt, or Storage Sense, the goal is the same — to let your PC run efficiently without digital clutter holding it back.

Make cache cleaning part of your regular maintenance routine, and you’ll keep your Windows 11 system running like new.

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FAQs About Clearing Memory Cache in Windows 11

1. How often should I clear cache in Windows 11?

Once every 2–4 weeks is ideal for most users to maintain smooth performance.

2. Does clearing cache delete my files?

No, clearing cache only removes temporary files and doesn’t affect personal data like photos or documents.

3. Can I use third-party tools to clear cache safely?

Yes, trusted apps like CCleaner, BleachBit, or Wise Disk Cleaner can help automate cache cleanup.

4. Does restarting Windows 11 clear cache automatically?

Restarting clears some temporary data but not all caches — manual cleanup is more thorough.

5. Will clearing cache speed up my computer?

Yes, especially if your system has limited RAM or disk space. It can reduce lag and make apps open faster.

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Summary: Key Takeaways

🧠 In short: Clearing cache in Windows 11 is like a health check for your PC — do it regularly to keep performance optimal, apps responsive, and storage clutter-free.