How to Clear Cache in Windows 11 (7 Effective Methods) 2024

As a Windows 11 user, you may have noticed that over time your system can become sluggish and unresponsive. This can be due to the accumulation of cache files, which are temporary data stored on your computer. Clearing the cache in Windows 11 is essential to maintain optimal system performance and free up valuable storage space. In this article, I will guide you through seven effective methods to clear cache in Windows 11, ensuring that your system runs smoothly and efficiently.

Clear Cache in Windows 11 from Settings

One of the simplest and most convenient ways to clear cache in Windows 11 is through the Settings menu. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings menu, click on System.
3. Scroll down on the left-hand side and click on Storage.
4. On the right-hand side, click on Temporary files.
5. Check the boxes next to the types of files you want to remove. These may include temporary files, downloaded files, recycle bin contents, and more.
6. Click on Remove files to clear the selected cache files.

By following these steps, you can easily clear cache files from your Windows 11 system, freeing up space and improving overall performance.

Clear Cache in Windows 11 using Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup is a built-in utility in Windows 11 that allows you to remove unnecessary files, including cache files. Here’s how you can use Disk Cleanup to clear cache in Windows 11:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type cleanmgr and press Enter.
3. Select the drive where your Windows 11 is installed (usually the C: drive).
4. Click on OK.
5. Disk Cleanup will now calculate how much space you can free up on your system.
6. In the Disk Cleanup window, check the boxes next to the types of files you want to remove, such as temporary files, recycle bin, and more.
7. Click on OK and then Delete Files to confirm.

By using Disk Cleanup, you can easily clear cache files and other unnecessary files from your Windows 11 system, optimizing performance and freeing up storage space.

Clear App Cache in Windows 11

Applications installed on your Windows 11 system also generate cache files, which can accumulate over time and affect performance. Here’s how you can clear app cache in Windows 11:

1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings menu, click on Apps.
3. On the Apps & features page, click on Apps & features again.
4. Scroll down and select the app for which you want to clear the cache.
5. Click on Advanced options.
6. Under the Storage usage and app reset section, click on Clear.

This will clear the cache for the selected app, improving its performance and freeing up storage space on your Windows 11 system.

Flush DNS Cache in Windows 11

The Domain Name System (DNS) cache stores information about previously visited websites, allowing for faster access in the future. However, an outdated or corrupted DNS cache can cause connectivity issues. Here’s how you can flush the DNS cache in Windows 11:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
3. In the Command Prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
4. Wait for the process to complete, and then close the Command Prompt.

By flushing the DNS cache, you can resolve connectivity issues and ensure smooth browsing on your Windows 11 system.

Clear Microsoft Store Cache in Windows 11

The Microsoft Store on Windows 11 also stores cache files, which can accumulate and cause issues with app installations and updates. Here’s how you can clear the Microsoft Store cache in Windows 11:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type wsreset and press Enter.
3. The Microsoft Store will open, and you will see a blank Command Prompt window.
4. Wait for the process to complete, and then the Microsoft Store will open again.

By clearing the Microsoft Store cache, you can resolve issues with app installations and updates on your Windows 11 system.

Automatically Clear Cache on Windows 11 with Storage Sense

Windows 11 includes a feature called Storage Sense, which automatically clears cache and unnecessary files to free up storage space. Here’s how you can enable Storage Sense to automatically clear cache in Windows 11:

1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings menu, click on System.
3. Scroll down on the left-hand side and click on Storage.
4. On the right-hand side, click on Storage Sense.
5. Toggle the switch to On under the Storage Sense section.
6. Click on Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
7. In the Run Storage Sense drop-down menu, select the frequency at which you want Storage Sense to run and clear cache files.

By enabling Storage Sense, you can automate the process of clearing cache files, ensuring that your Windows 11 system stays optimized and clutter-free.

Clear Cache in Windows 11 Using a Third-party Program

If you prefer a more advanced and customizable approach to clearing cache in Windows 11, you can use a third-party program. There are several reputable programs available that offer comprehensive cache management features. Here are a few popular options:

1. CCleaner: CCleaner is a widely-used program that allows you to clean cache files, temporary files, and other unnecessary data from your Windows 11 system. It also offers advanced features for optimizing system performance.
2. BleachBit: BleachBit is an open-source program that provides similar cache cleaning functionality as CCleaner. It supports a wide range of applications and allows for deep cleaning of cache files.
3. Wise Disk Cleaner: Wise Disk Cleaner is another popular option that offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive cache cleaning capabilities. It also includes additional features for disk optimization and privacy protection.

By using a third-party program, you can have more control over the cache clearing process and customize it according to your specific needs.