Clearing the cache in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 might seem like a small thing, but honestly, it can make a real difference to how your browser runs—especially when pages start playing up or load real slow. Over time, your browser hoards cookies, cached images, and all that clutter, which can cause outdated stuff to stick around or slow things down. Knowing how to clear that cache can save you a lot of fuss later on, especially if websites act a bit dodgy or you’re troubleshooting some browser issues.
How to Clear Cache in Edge on Windows 11
Getting to the right settings — it’s not always dead easy
Most folks find it easiest to get there through the menu, but sometimes the options hide behind a few clicks. The aim is to get rid of cached images and files, cookies, and maybe browsing history if you need. Doing this regularly helps keep things quick and stops old data from confusing your browser.
Method 1: Manually Clearing Cache Through Settings
- Open Edge by clicking the icon or searching for it in the Start menu. You’ll see the familiar blue “e” badge.
- Click on the three dots (Settings and more) in the top right corner. Yep, that ellipsis icon.
- Select Settings from the dropdown, then head to Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll down to Clear browsing data and click on Choose what to clear.
- A popup will show up — select what you want gone. Tick the box next to Cached images and files. If you’re worried about cookies or your browsing history, toss those in too.
- Click Clear now. And done — your cache is cleared.
On some setups, this can feel a bit finicky and might not work straight away. Sometimes, giving the browser a quick restart helps it stick. Not sure why, but it’s just one of those Windows-Edge quirks.
Method 2: Using the Shortcut for a Quick Clean
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete while in Edge. Yep, just those keys together. A little window pops up with some options.
- Make sure Cached images and files is checked. You can select other bits if you like.
- Hit Clear now.
This shortcut is handy if you’re in a rush or just want a quick tidy-up. Works pretty well, but if things seem odd afterward, try restarting the browser.
Extra tip: Automate clearing the cache when you close Edge
If you’re into troubleshooting or just like to keep things tidy without thinking about it, you can set Edge to wipe the cache every time you shut it down. Head over to Settings > Privacy, search, and services. Scroll down to Clear browsing data on close and turn it on. Pick what data you want gone each time. It’s a bit weird, but it’s a handy way to keep your cache fresh without lifting a finger.
What exactly gets cleared — a heads up
Clearing cached images and files usually speeds things up or fixes outdated pages. But be warned—cookies and saved login info will disappear, so you might have to log in again on some sites. Also, some locally saved preferences might reset. On some machines, this might even log you out or revert certain settings, so make sure you’ve got your passwords saved somewhere safe.
Tips for clearing cache in Edge on Windows 11
- Do this about once a month, especially if sites load slowly or show old info.
- Consider turning on “Clear browsing data on exit” if you’re security-conscious or just hate clutter.
- Remember, clearing cookies will log you out of sites—so keep your passwords handy.
- Be careful what you select to avoid losing stuff accidentally.
- If a page still looks weird after clearing, try refreshing it or restarting the browser again.
FAQs
Why should I bother clearing my cache in Edge?
It helps keep things running smoothly and can fix annoying bugs or outdated page loads. Plus, it’s good for your privacy if you want to wipe the slate clean.
Are my bookmarks safe?
Yep, clearing cached data only hits temporary files, cookies, and site data—not your bookmarks or saved passwords, unless you choose to clear cookies as well.
How often should I do this?
It depends how much you browse, but once a month is a good rule of thumb—unless you’re troubleshooting or sharing the device.
Can I recover data after clearing?
Once it’s gone, that’s it—no getting it back. So back up any cookies or saved data if you need it later.
Will this affect my extensions?
Generally not, unless those extensions store cached data that gets wiped. Most keep their own info separate.
Summary
- Open Edge and click the three dots.
- Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services.
- Select Clear browsing data, then pick what you want gone.
- Tick Cached images and files and hit Clear now.
Wrap-up
Clearing the cache isn’t exactly glamorous, but it’s a quick fix that can seriously improve browsing speed and fix issues. It’s a bit like turning it off and on again, but for your browser. Sometimes it works on the first go, other times a restart helps. Either way, it’s worth having a go if things feel slow or dodgy. Hope this helps anyone sick of slow pages or weird errors!