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How to Clear Cache on Windows 11 to Improve Performance

 

How to Clear Cache on Windows 11 to Improve Performance


When your Windows 11 PC starts acting sluggish or behaving unusually, clearing out different types of cache can significantly boost its performance and help resolve common issues.

1. Delete Temporary Files via Settings

  • Open Settings (press Win + I).

  • Navigate to System → Storage → Temporary files.

  • You'll see a list of file types you can safely remove—these may include system temporary files, Windows update logs, the DirectX shader cache, files in the Recycle Bin, and your Downloads folder.

    • ⚠️ Be careful when selecting Downloads, as this will permanently delete all files in that folder.

  • Click Remove files and confirm by selecting Continue.

2. Clear Location History Cache

  • Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Location.

  • Under Location history, click Clear to wipe previously stored location data.

  • A checkmark will appear once the process is complete.

3. Reset Microsoft Store Cache

  • Press Win + R to open the Run window.

  • Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.

  • A command window will pop up briefly, then automatically close, reopening the Microsoft Store with its cache cleared.

4. Flush the DNS Cache

  • If you're facing trouble loading websites, this can help.

  • Open Command Prompt and type the following command:

    bash
    ipconfig /flushdns

  • Press Enter. This won't free up space but can resolve connectivity and name resolution issues.

5. Clear Browser Cache (Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

  • In your browser, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open the “Clear browsing data” window.

  • Select the options to delete cached files and images (and cookies, if needed), then confirm the deletion.


6. Use Tools Like CCleaner for Deep Cleaning

  • While Windows includes decent cleanup tools, third-party apps like CCleaner can go even further.

  • They scan for residual app data, browser caches, log files, and more.

  • Review the selected items carefully before running the cleanup process to avoid deleting important data.

Why Does Clearing Cache Help?

Cache files are designed to speed up processes by storing frequently used data. But when they become too large or corrupted, they can actually slow things down or cause crashes. Clearing these files regularly can free up storage space and make your system run more smoothly.

Quick Reference Table

Cache TypeWhere to Clear ItPurpose
Temporary filesSettings → System → Storage → Temporary filesFrees up space and removes outdated data
Location historySettings → Privacy & security → LocationDeletes stored location info
Microsoft Store cacheRun → wsreset.exeFixes app launch or update problems
DNS cacheCommand Prompt → ipconfig /flushdnsResolves network/domain name issues
Browser cacheCtrl + Shift + Delete in your browserClears up loading issues, refreshes websites
Third-party cleaner (e.g., CCleaner)App interfaceOffers deep cleaning of various system caches

Final Tips

  • Be cautious about deleting contents from your Downloads folder or browser cookies.

  • Tools like CCleaner provide a more detailed cleanup, but always double-check what you’re removing.

  • If your computer is slowing down or specific programs are misbehaving, clearing the cache is often a quick and effective fix.