What is cache?
Cache means storage or reserve. On a computer, it refers to a part of the memory where temporary internet files are stored. These files can include text, images and videos from websites. This stored data is what we call the cache.
Why store cache?
Storing data in the cache helps websites load faster. When you visit a page, your computer retrieves the necessary information from the cache instead of the internet. This saves time and data usage. If you feel that a website is not up to date or is loading incorrectly, it can be helpful to clear the cache. This removes the temporary files and forces the website to load fully from the internet the next time you visit. The process is harmless; websites may only load a bit more slowly on your first visit after clearing the cache.
Clear cache in different browsers
Below you will find a step-by-step guide to clearing the cache in the most popular web browsers.
1. Click the three vertical dots in the top right corner.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Select Privacy and security.
4. Click Clear browsing data.
5. Under the Basic tab, tick Cached images and files.
6. Untick all other options.
7. Click Clear data.
8. Close the Settings tab.
View the Google Support guide here for more details or alternative ways to clear your cache.
1. Click the three lines in the top right corner to open the application menu.
2. Go to ‘Settings’.
3. Select ‘Privacy and security’.
4. Scroll to ‘Cookies and site data’.
5. Click ‘Clear data’.
6. Uncheck ‘Cookies and site data’.
7. Click ‘Clear’.
8. Close the ‘Settings’ tab.
1. Click the three horizontal dots in the top right corner (Settings and more).
2. Go to ‘Settings’.
3. Select ‘Privacy, search and services’.
4. Under ‘Clear browsing data’, click ‘Choose what to clear’.
5. Check ‘Cached images and files’.
6. Uncheck all other options.
7. Click ‘Clear now’.
8. Close the ‘Settings’ tab.
1. Click ‘Safari’ in the menu bar at the top.
2. Go to ‘Settings’.
3. Select the ‘Advanced’ tab.
4. Check ‘Show features for web developers’.
5. Close the settings window.
6. Click ‘Develop’ in the menu bar.
7. Select ‘Empty caches’.
Why you should clear your cache
Clearing the cache ensures that you see the most up to date version of a website and can help resolve display issues. Although you do not need to do this frequently, it is useful to know how it works for moments when you encounter problems.
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