Browser cache: how it works and what happens if you delete it (2024)

FAQs

Browser cache: how it works and what happens if you delete it? ›

The purpose of the cache is to eliminate the need to download everything from a website every time you visit it, which speeds things up. If the designated storage space for your cache gets full or contains corrupted files, it can cause an assortment of issues, which is why clearing it on a regular basis is a good idea.

A common concern is that clearing your cache might delete the images, songs, documents, and other files you have downloaded from website you have visited, but those files are different to your web browser cache. So rest assured that simply clearing your cache won't affect the files you have saved.

You might clear your cache because you are having problems with a website and want to try again with a "clean slate". Clearing the cache will remove all the temporary copies of a website and it's files, and the next time you visit the site it will be freshly downloaded (and hopefully without problems).

Tip: Clearing the cache simply clears temporary files. It won't erase login credentials, downloaded files, or custom settings.

After you clear cache and cookies: Some settings on sites get deleted. For example, if you were signed in, you'll need to sign in again. If you turn sync on in Chrome, you'll stay signed into the Google Account you're syncing to in order to delete your data across all your devices.

Some of your settings might be deleted when clearing your browser history. For example, you might have to re-sign into your accounts. If you want to delete cookies and cache for a specific site, you can learn how to change more cookie settings in Chrome.

Clearing cache and cookies can be beneficial in certain situations. Cookies store information about your browsing habits and preferences, while the cache stores temporary data to improve website loading speed. Clearing them can help resolve issues like website errors or slow loading.

So after you clear the cache, some sites may initially seem slower because content such as images needs to load again. Some settings on websites, e.g. logins or forms you had filled in, will be deleted. The next time you visit these sites, you'll have to enter the information manually again.

Cache refers to a temporary storage area on your device that stores recently visited web pages, so technically if you only clear the cached images and files, there are no passwords to worry about.

How often do I need to clear my cache? Most people only need to clear their caches once every month or two. That's generally the point when your browser will build up a cache large enough to start slowing things down. If you frequent a large number of sites, you should err on the side of clearing your cache more often.

Will clearing the cache delete pictures? ›

By clearing the cache, you can free up space on your device and help to ensure that it continues to run smoothly. It's important to note that clearing the cache will not delete any personal data, such as photos or contacts. It will only remove temporary files that are no longer needed.

App cache and data can sometimes harbor malicious code. Clearing them can help remove the virus and improve your phone's performance. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications, select the suspicious app, and tap "Storage" followed by "Clear cache" and "Clear storage."

Browsing history: Deleting your browsing history deletes the following: Web addresses you've visited are removed from the History page. Shortcuts to those pages are removed from the New Tab page. Address bar predictions for those websites are no longer shown.

Your cache may be storing unnecessary data and could be taking up space on your device. If you are running out of storage space on your device or find that it is running slowly, it may help to clear your cache. Find out how to check how much storage space you have left on your phone.

Cookies also keep track of which site you're logged in to—which is why, if you clear your cookies, you'll need to log back in to all of your accounts. Clearing your cache doesn't affect any of this.

Cache refers to a temporary storage area on your device that stores recently visited web pages, so technically if you only clear the cached images and files, there are no passwords to worry about.

Content settings: Settings and permissions you give to websites are deleted. For example, if a site can run JavaScript, use your camera, or know your location. Hosted app data: Data from hosted Chrome Web Store apps is erased, like the local storage used by Gmail Offline.