To clear cache on Windows 10, you can follow these steps to remove different types of cache and temporary files, which helps improve system performance and free up storage space:
1. Use Disk Cleanup Tool
- Type Disk Cleanup in the Windows search bar and open the tool.
- Select your main drive (usually C:) and click OK.
- In the list of files to delete, check Temporary files , Thumbnails , and other cache-related items.
- Click OK and then Delete Files to confirm. This clears system cache including DirectX cache and other hidden caches
2. Clear Temporary and Prefetch Files
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
tempand press Enter, then delete all files in the folder. - Repeat the process with
%temp%and then withprefetchto delete all files in those folders. These are safe to delete and help clear temporary system cache
3. Clear Windows Update Cache
- Navigate to
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download. - Delete all files inside the Download folder (do not delete the folder itself). This removes old Windows update files that are no longer needed
4. Clear Browser Cache
- Open your browser, go to its settings or history section.
- Find the option to clear browsing data or cache (usually Ctrl + Shift + Del).
- Select cached images and files, cookies, and other browsing data, then clear them. This improves browser speed and loading times
5. Optional: Use Third-Party Tools
- Tools like WinDirStat or BleachBit can help identify and clear large cache files and junk data on your PC
Following these steps regularly will help your Windows 10 PC run smoother and free up disk space by removing unnecessary cached files.
