How to Clear Cache in Windows Explorer
Are you experiencing slow performance or strange behavior in Windows Explorer? One common reason for these issues could be the accumulation of cache files. Clearing the cache in Windows Explorer can help improve your system’s performance and resolve certain problems. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to clear the cache in Windows Explorer on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Why Clear Cache in Windows Explorer?
Cache files are temporary files that Windows Explorer stores to speed up the loading of frequently accessed files and folders. While these files are generally beneficial, they can become outdated or corrupted over time, leading to performance issues. Clearing the cache can help eliminate these problems and ensure that Windows Explorer runs smoothly.
Steps to Clear Cache in Windows Explorer
1.
Open Windows Explorer
First, open Windows Explorer by clicking on the folder icon in the taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E.
2.
Access the File Explorer Options
In the top-right corner of the Windows Explorer window, click on the “View” tab. Then, click on “Options” in the ribbon menu.
3.
Go to the Advanced Tab
In the File Explorer Options window, select the “Advanced” tab.
4.
Clear Cache
In the Advanced settings, scroll down to the “Performance” section. Here, you will find the “Use hard disk caching for temporary files” option. Uncheck this box to disable caching for temporary files in Windows Explorer.
5.
Apply and Restart
Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes. Restart Windows Explorer by closing and reopening the application or by restarting your computer.
Alternative Method: Clearing Cache Through Disk Cleanup
If you prefer an alternative method, you can clear the cache in Windows Explorer using the Disk Cleanup utility. Here’s how:
1.
Open Disk Cleanup
Press the Windows key + S, type “Disk Cleanup,” and click on the “Disk Cleanup” app from the search results.
2.
Select the Drive
Select the drive where Windows is installed (usually the C: drive) and click “OK.”
3.
Select Temporary Files
Check the box for “Temporary files” and click “OK.”
4.
Clear Cache
Disk Cleanup will now scan your system for temporary files. Select “OK” to delete them, including the cache files in Windows Explorer.
Conclusion
Clearing the cache in Windows Explorer can help improve your system’s performance and resolve certain issues. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily clear the cache and enjoy a smoother experience with Windows Explorer.
