What is cache and how do I clear it?

When we browse the web, our devices automatically store data from the websites we visit. This is called a cache. The cache helps improve our online experience by making websites load faster. But over time, cached data can build up and often cause problems. In the following blog post, we will explore what a cache is, how to clear it, and the advantages and disadvantages of using a cache.

A cache temporarily stores data, allowing websites and apps to load faster on subsequent visits. When you visit a website for the first time, your device saves elements such as images, scripts and layouts in its cache. The next time you visit the same page, your device does not need to download all the content from the internet again, resulting in a faster loading time. However, caching can sometimes cause problems, such as outdated pages or errors when displaying content. This is why it is important to know how to clear your cache.

How you clear your cache varies between operating systems and browsers. Here are specific examples of how to clear your cache on both Windows and Mac using the Google Chrome browser: 

Chrome + Macbook

1. Open the Chrome browser.
2. Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select “Settings.”
3. Scroll down and click “Privacy and security.”
4. Click “Clear browsing data.”
5. Select “Cached images and files” and click “Clear data.”

Bonus: You can also press control + command + r

Chrome + Windows

1. Open the Chrome browser.
2. Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select “Settings.”
3. Select “Privacy and security.”
4. Click “Clear browsing data.”
5. Select “Cached images and files” and click “Clear data.”

Bonus: You can also press ctrl + shift + r

1. Frees up storage space: Over time, cached data can accumulate and take up a significant amount of storage space on your device. For those with limited storage, especially on smartphones and tablets, this can become a problem. Clearing the cache frees up this space, which can help improve your device’s overall performance.
2. Resolves technical issues: Caching can sometimes cause a range of technical issues. For example, if a website does not load correctly or its content seems outdated, this may be due to a corrupted or old cache. Clearing the cache can often resolve these issues, as your browser will retrieve the latest version of the page directly from the server.
3. Improves speed: While caching normally makes websites load faster, an overloaded cache can actually have the opposite effect. When the cache contains too much data, it can take the browser longer to find the relevant files. Clearing the cache can therefore optimise your browser and potentially make websites load faster.
4. Protects your privacy: The cache can contain traces of your online activities, including which websites you have visited and which files you have downloaded. Clearing your cache removes this data, protecting your privacy, especially when using a shared or public device.
5. Avoids conflicts with updated websites: When a website is updated, old cached elements can create conflicts and cause errors when loading the page. Clearing the cache ensures that you always see the latest version of the website, which is particularly important for sites that are frequently updated with new content.

1. Outdated content: The cache often stores an older version of a website to reduce loading times. However, this can mean that you sometimes see outdated content. For example, if an online store has updated its products or prices but you see a cached version, this can lead to misunderstandings or errors. This can be problematic, especially when you need the most up-to-date information.
2. Loading errors: If the cache contains outdated or corrupted data, it can cause errors when you try to load a website. You may encounter missing images, incorrect formatting or an entire website that fails to load correctly. This can be frustrating and may require you to clear the cache manually to resolve the problem.
3. Space: Although cached data often consists of small files, these can accumulate over time and take up significant space on your device. This can affect performance, especially if you use a device with limited storage, such as a smartphone. A full cache can even result in slower performance as the device struggles to find and use the necessary space efficiently.
4. Security: Cached data can potentially become a target for malware and hackers. If a hacker gains access to your cache, they can extract information about your browsing habits and even access sensitive data, such as login credentials, if these are stored there. This is one reason why clearing the cache regularly is recommended, especially on public or shared computers.
5. Hides changes during development: For developers and designers, caching can be an obstacle because it can hide changes being made to a website. If the cache is not cleared, they may continue to see an older version of the page, even after implementing new changes. This can make debugging and testing more difficult and time-consuming.