Looking to reach your WindowsApps folder? Even if you can’t access it by default, there are ways to get to it.
What Is Cache and Why You Should Clear It
Cached data in Windows usually consists of temporary files that your computer needs to use, frequently including:
Assets that apps and programs need in order to load instantly when opened the next time. Information about usage habits. The last component of an app that was in use so that it loads faster when you reuse it again later. This could be a specific part or a feature in an app.
Cache files or cached data should not be confused with cache memory, as the latter is a hardware component. More specifically, cache memory is a fast type of memory that’s mainly used by the CPU. As useful as cache may be, these files tend to accumulate on your device and occupy disk space that may affect your Windows PC’s performance. In addition, cache data may become corrupted or outdated, so clearing it may help fix any issues across your system. Many methods are available on Windows to remove cache files. Consider them successive steps to follow to clear all cache files from all over the system.
1. Delete Temporary Files
While the location of Windows cache is not fixed, the best-known storage path of the cache in Windows is usually “C:\Windows\Temp.” It’s safe to delete these temporary files. Note: You can press Shift + Delete after selecting the files to permanently delete them. Tip: if the Settings app is not working properly in Windows, check out these fixes.
2. Clear Temporary Files Through Settings
Some of those files may not be deleted through the “Temp” folders. However, a quick visit to the “Settings” app will help you find and clear more cache files. This folder includes residual files from your latest Windows update, thumbnail files, and Internet files like cached websites and web apps. However, deleting those files is safe and could free up considerable storage. In our case, we saved 4.6GB.
3. Using Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is a built-in tool in Windows that lets users clean up specific partitions. Additionally, it includes the option to clear the system’s cached data and temporary files.
4. Clear the Browser Cache
Every time you visit a website online, your browser downloads and stores some of its static components on your Windows device to make the website load faster the next time you visit. Tip: learn how to block cookie consent pop-ups in your browser.
5. Clear DNS Cache
Windows machines save DNS data continuously, as it helps the device connect to external servers easily. However, long-term use of Windows can result in the accumulation of data. You can easily clear the DNS cache (also known as Flush DNS Cache).
6. Clear Microsoft Store’s Cache
The Microsoft Store ends up storing many cache files, including files related to installing apps and games and assets used to display content in its main interface. Fortunately, you can delete these cache files in one step without impacting the Microsoft Store’s functionality or the apps and games you have downloaded.
7. Clear Location History
If you frequently use location services on a Windows device, it will gradually store your past locations. Similar to other cache files, deleting location history may improve the functionality of your device and help fix any location-related issues. Furthermore, your Windows location history is accessible by other apps on Windows, so deleting it will improve your privacy. Get up to speed on how to set up a local web server on Windows (and other operating systems.)
8. Deleting Restore Points
Windows allows users to create multiple restore points to be used if the device runs into any critical issues. However, deleting unused restore points and the associated cache files will free up considerable space.
9. Setting Up Storage Sense
Storage Sense is a built-in feature in Windows 11/10 and allows your Windows device to clear itself of cache files continuously. Setting it up would improve your experience over time. However, in most cases, this option isn’t a substitute for the methods outlined above, as it can’t find and delete all types of cache files. Nevertheless, there’s no harm in setting it up.
10. Using Dedicated Software
If you want to dig deeper for hidden cache files, you may need to use dedicated software, as some parts of the system aren’t accessible to the regular user, at least in an easy way. One excellent option is to use CCleaner, which offers a 14-day trial period. Tip: PC performance still low? You might want to start cleaning your Windows registry, as well. Image credit: Windows via Unsplash. All screenshots by Mustafa Ashour.
