How to Clear the Cache in Windows 10

To clear the cache in Windows 10, go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files, check Temporary files, and select Remove files. That clears the biggest system cache. Your browser, the Microsoft Store, and DNS each keep their own cache, which you clear separately below.

A cache is a store of files Windows and apps keep so things load faster. Clearing it is safe. It frees up space and can fix pages or apps that show old or broken content.

Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 24, 2026.

Which cache do you need to clear?

• Running out of space: clear temporary files and thumbnails.
• A website looks wrong or out of date: clear your browser cache.
• Microsoft Store apps won’t download or update: clear the Store cache.
• Websites won’t load but your internet works: clear the DNS cache.

Clear temporary files

1. Press Windows + I and select System > Storage.
2. Select Temporary files, check Temporary files, and select Remove files.

For every method, including Disk Cleanup and the Temp folder, see how to delete temporary files in Windows 10.

Clear the browser cache

In Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.

1. Choose a Time range, such as All time.
2. Check Cached images and files. Uncheck Cookies and Passwords if you don’t want to be signed out.
3. Select Clear now.

Clear the Microsoft Store cache

Press Windows + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. A blank window opens for about ten seconds, then the Store opens. The cache is cleared.

Clear the DNS cache

1. Search Start for cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

Clear the thumbnail cache

If File Explorer shows the wrong picture for a file, clear thumbnails:

1. Search Start for Disk Cleanup and open it.
2. Check Thumbnails and select OK > Delete Files. Windows rebuilds them as you browse.

Clear File Explorer history

In File Explorer, select View > Options. On the General tab, under Privacy, select Clear.

Keep the cache under control

Turn on Storage Sense in Settings > System > Storage. It deletes temporary files on a schedule so you don’t have to.

Frequently asked questions

Will clearing the cache delete my files?

No. It removes copies Windows and apps can rebuild. Your documents, photos, and apps stay.

Will clearing the cache speed up my PC?

It helps if your drive is nearly full or a page is stuck. For other fixes, see how to speed up a Windows 10 computer.

Is there a way to clear RAM cache?

Windows manages memory on its own. Restarting the PC clears it. Closing apps you aren’t using also frees memory.

To clear the data for one app instead, see how to clear app data and cache in Windows 10.

Private browsing windows don’t keep history at all. See whether you can see incognito history on Windows 10.

Microsoft’s guide is Free up drive space in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.

Matt Jacobs

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.