To clear an app’s data and cache in Windows 10, select Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Select the app, select Advanced options, and then select Reset. Select Reset again to confirm. This deletes the app’s saved data and settings, and the app starts fresh.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 27, 2026.
Advanced options is there for Microsoft Store apps and some built-in apps. For other desktop programs, see the section below.
Try Repair first
Repair tries to fix the app and keeps its data.
- Select Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Select the app, then Advanced options.
- Select Repair. A check mark shows when it’s done.
Reset the app to clear its data
- On the same Advanced options page, select Reset.
- Select Reset again in the box that opens.
- Open the app. You may need to set it up again.
If the app is stuck, select Terminate first to close it.
Desktop programs
Programs you installed from a website don’t have Advanced options.
- To repair one, open Control Panel, select Programs > Programs and Features, right-click the program, and select Repair or Change.
- Check the program’s own settings for a clear cache or reset option.
- If nothing works, uninstall and reinstall it. See how to uninstall programs on Windows 10.
Many programs keep their data in the AppData folder. Don’t delete things there unless you know what they are. See how to open the AppData folder in Windows 10.
Clear the Microsoft Store cache
Press Windows + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. A blank window opens, and the Store opens when it’s done.
Frequently asked questions
Will Reset delete my documents?
No. Files you saved in folders like Documents or Pictures stay. Reset only removes the app’s own data and settings.
How do I clear other temporary files?
See how to clear the cache in Windows 10.
The app still won’t open. What now?
See how to fix apps not opening in Windows 10.
For Calculator in particular, see how to reinstall or repair Calculator in Windows 10.
Microsoft’s reference is Repair apps and programs in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.