Caching is a useful process that improves speed and performance whenever you visit a website. It works by storing static data and resources (like images) on your computer so they don't need to be downloaded again on your next visit. While caching is generally positive, an outdated cache can sometimes cause loading issues or display broken pages.
Clearing your cache is a solid first step in diagnosing website issues. Below, we'll cover how to clear your cache in most modern desktop browsers without losing your saved passwords or cookies.
In almost all browsers, you can jump straight to the "Clear Data" menu by pressing:
Windows/Linux:
Ctrl + Shift + Delete Mac:
Cmd + Shift + BackspaceChrome-Based Browsers
Browsers based on Chromium (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, and Brave) all follow a very similar process:
- Click the three dots or three lines in the top right corner of your browser.
- Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
- Click the Privacy and security tab on the left-hand side of the screen.
- Select Clear browsing data.
- A pop-up window will appear. Set the Time range to All time.
- Important: Uncheck everything except Cached images and files. (Leaving cookies unchecked ensures you aren't logged out of your websites).
- Click Clear data.
Mozilla Firefox
The process for Mozilla Firefox is very similar. Follow these steps:
- Click the three lines (hamburger menu) in the top right corner of your browser.
- Select Settings.
- Click the Privacy & Security tab on the left-hand side.
- Scroll down to the Cookies and Site Data section.
- Click the Clear Data... button.
- A small window will pop up. Uncheck "Cookies and Site Data" and ensure only "Cached Web Content" is checked.
- Click Clear to delete your cached data.
Apple Safari (Mac)
If you use Safari on a Mac, the process is slightly different:
- Click Safari in the top menu bar, then select Preferences (or Settings).
- Go to the Advanced tab and check the box at the bottom that says Show Develop menu in menu bar.
- Close the Preferences window.
- Click the new Develop menu at the top of your screen, and select Empty Caches.
If only one specific website is acting up, you might not need to clear your entire cache. Try a "Hard Refresh" to force the browser to reload the current page from scratch:
- Windows/Linux:
Ctrl+F5 - Mac:
Cmd+Shift+R
