How to Clear Your Browser's Cache

Are your web pages not loading correctly? Are some of your websites not loading at all? While you might be in need of a more advanced network solution, a great way to troubleshoot your problems is by clearing your browser’s cache. If you have no idea what a cache is, not to worry! Keep reading to understand your browser’s cache, the importance of clearing it, and a step-by-step cache cleaning guide.

What is your browser's cache?

Each browser you use stores images and files that are used periodically in order to help load pages faster. For example, that WebRevelation logo you see at the top of the screen can be found on other pages of this website. Instead of having to download that image with each new page you click on, your browser probably has the image saved in its cache to be quickly retrieved as you explore the website. This tool is great for quick searching, but your browser’s cache might be harboring unnecessary files.

Caches are different from cookies. A cookie is a file that the web browser creates and stores on the computer, such as usernames and passwords. These are usually user-specific information that you probably use on a semi-regular basis. Caches are also different from your browser’s history which is a record of the websites that you have been to and the order that you visited them.

Why do you need to clear your cache?

While the cache can speed up the time it takes for a website to load, it’s a good idea to clear it regularly. Old cached files might prevent you from viewing the most recent version of a web page. Cookies typically expire after a certain amount of time, or when you log out of a website, but the cache only clears out its data when it gets full. This means that you could have unwanted images and files from websites you visited once and might never visit again.

How do you clear your cache?

Here is a step-by-step guide for clearing the caches on Chrome and Safari browsers. If you use a different browser, or if you’re reading from your mobile device, click here to learn how to clear your browser.

Chrome:

1. Click on the three vertical dots to the right of the search bar.

2. Click More Tools.

3. Click Clear Browser Data.

(For a shortcut: Hold down Shift, Command, Delete)

4. A window will pop up where you can select your desired time range and select Cached Images and Files.

5. Click Clear Data.

Safari:

1. Click the Develop tab in the menu bar.

2. If you don’t see this tab, click Safari, Preferences, Advanced and make sure “Show Develop menu in menu bar” button is checked.

3. Click Empty Caches. 

(For a shortcut: Hold down Command, Option, E)

If you're more of a visual learner, watch this video tutorial that demonstrates how to clear the cache. 

See, that wasn’t so bad! If you are still experiencing trouble with your website, give us a call today. WebRevelation offers free consultations for your website problems and offers solutions catered just to you.