If you're looking for a way to learn about clearing cache in Windows 10, you've probably come to this article because you want to free up more space, make your PC run faster, or fix app and network issues. Cache files do very useful functions on a computer; however, they can also be great sources of bulk inside the system which consequently will bring a slowdown in speed and errors caused by accumulation.Windows 10 lacks a one-click solution, requiring specific methods for different caches. This guide provides four clear, step-by-step ways to clear system cache on Windows 10 safely. Plus, we’ll show you how to boost productivity with WPS Office post-cleanup.
Part 1: How to Clear System Cache on Windows 10 Using Disk Cleanup
The system cache in Windows 10 is a collection of temporary files that apps and processes use to speed things up. But when they pile up, they hog disk space, slow your PC, and limit room for new software. Disk Cleanup is a beginner-friendly, built-in tool to clear system cache on Windows 10 safely. I’ve relied on this method to free up gigabytes of space, and it’s as easy as a few clicks.
Steps
Step 1: Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Windows 10 search bar and open the app.
Step 2: Select the C: drive (or your primary drive) and click “OK.”
Step 3: Check boxes for “Temporary files,” “Recycle Bin,” and other cache items. Click “Clean up system files” for extra options like old Windows updates.
Step 4: Confirm selections and click “OK” to delete cache files.
Tips
Run Disk Cleanup monthly to keep your PC in top shape. I’ve found it prevents slowdowns, especially on older machines.
It’s completely safe—your personal files like photos or documents won’t be touched.
Close all apps before starting to ensure a thorough cleanup.
Disk Cleanup is my first go-to when a PC feels sluggish. It’s not glamorous, but it’s reliable, often freeing up 5-10 GB on the first run. Compared to third-party cleaners, it’s risk-free and built right into Windows.
Part 2: How to Clear Browser Cache on Windows 10 Using Microsoft Edge
Browser cache stores website data to load pages faster, but when it’s outdated, it can cause websites to misload or throw errors. Clearing the cache in Microsoft Edge is a quick fix for web issues, and I’ve used it to solve everything from login failures to broken page layouts. If websites are acting up, this method is a must to clear cache on Windows 10.
Steps
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
Step 2: Go to “Settings” > “Privacy, search, and services.”
Step 3: Under “Clear browsing data,” click “Choose what to clear.”
Step 4: Select “Cached images and files” (and optionally “Cookies”), choose “All time” as the time range, and click “Clear now.”
Tips
Clear cache weekly if websites misbehave (e.g., I’ve seen Reddit users flag ChatGPT login issues tied to cache).
Clearing cookies may log you out, so save passwords in a manager first.
Test problematic sites in Incognito mode to confirm cache issues.
I once spent hours debugging a client’s e-commerce site that wouldn’t load—clearing Edge’s cache fixed it in minutes. It’s a simple trick that feels like a lifesaver. Edge’s interface makes this process smoother than some other browsers.
Part 3: How to Clear Windows Update Cache on Windows 10
Windows Update cache, stored in the SoftwareDistribution folder, holds temporary files for system updates. These can balloon in size, eating gigabytes or causing update failures. Clearing this cache is a bit advanced but safe with clear steps. I’ve used it to fix stuck updates and reclaim space on my work PC.
Steps
Step 1: Search for “Services” in the Windows 10 search bar and open it.
Step 2: Find “Windows Update,” right-click, and select “Stop.”
Step 3: Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and delete all contents (safe to do).
Step 4: Restart the Windows Update service and check for updates.
Tips
Stop the Windows Update service first to avoid “file in use” errors.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter if updates still fail.
This can free up several GB, especially after major updates.
This method bailed me out when a client’s PC was choking on 8 GB of update files. It’s a touch technical, but stick to the steps, and it’s foolproof. Compared to Disk Cleanup, it’s more focused but needs extra care.
Part 4: How to Clear Temporary Files on Windows 10 Using Command Prompt
Temporary files in Windows 10’s temp folders come from apps and system processes, piling up and wasting space. Using Command Prompt to clear cache on Windows 10 is a fast, script-like approach for those comfortable with basic commands. I love its speed when I need a quick cleanup.
Steps
Step 1: Search for “Command Prompt” in the Windows 10 search bar, right-click, and select “Run as administrator.”
Step 2: Type del /q /f /s %temp%\* and press Enter to delete temp files.
Step 3: Type del /q /f /s C:\Windows\Temp\* and press Enter to delete additional temp files.
Step 4: Close Command Prompt and restart your PC to finalize cleanup.
Tips
You need admin rights, so don’t skip “Run as administrator.”
Check disk space before and after in File Explorer—I’ve freed up 3-5 GB this way.
Perfect for users who like a command-line approach, but follow steps exactly to avoid mistakes.
Command Prompt feels like a digital power tool, sweeping away junk in seconds. It’s faster than Disk Cleanup but less visual, so it’s ideal for those who don’t mind typing. I use it when I’m in a hurry.
Part 5: After Cleaning Cache—Install Essentials Like WPS Office
With your Windows 10 system now running smoothly after clearing the cache, it’s the perfect time to equip it with powerful productivity tools. My top recommendation? WPS Office, a free, all-in-one suite that’s been a staple in my workflow for its versatility and ease of use. Here’s why it’s a must-have to keep your PC at its best:
All-in-One Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Support WPS Office offers Writer, Spreadsheets, and Presentation, all free and fully compatible with Microsoft formats like .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx. Whether you’re drafting reports, managing budgets, or creating slides, WPS delivers professional results without the hefty price tag.
Built-in PDF Reader and Editor WPS’s PDF tools are a lifesaver for handling digital documents. You can open, annotate, convert, or merge PDFs directly in the suite, making it ideal for students, professionals, or anyone juggling contracts and study notes.
WPS AI: Smart Writing and Document Tools WPS AI takes productivity to the next level by summarizing long documents, refining your writing, and generating content ideas. It’s like having a smart assistant to streamline tasks, from polishing emails to brainstorming reports.
I rely on WPS Office daily for its lightweight 200 MB footprint and seamless sync across my Windows 10 PC and Android phone. It’s free, intuitive, and rivals pricier suites like Microsoft Office for most tasks. The AI features have saved me hours on document edits, making it a no-brainer for any optimized system. Download it from wps.com to experience why over 500 million users, with a 4.8 Trustpilot rating, trust WPS Office to stay productive.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to clear cache on Windows 10?
Absolutely, clearing cache removes only temporary files, not personal data like documents or photos. I’ve done it countless times with no issues. Just stick to trusted methods like those above, and avoid deleting system files. For browser cache, save passwords before clearing cookies to avoid login hassles.
Q2: How often should I clear my browsing history?
Clear your browser cache every 1-2 months to keep websites loading smoothly and fix errors. If pages load slowly or show outdated content, clear sooner. For privacy, clear cookies and history monthly on shared PCs. Weekly is overkill unless you’re troubleshooting.
Q3: What is the difference between clearing cache on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
The steps are mostly the same, but Windows 11’s Storage Sense offers a slicker interface and more auto-cleanup options, like targeting old system versions. Windows 10 relies on Disk Cleanup for similar tasks. Browser cache and temp file methods are identical. I’ve tested both, and Windows 11 feels a bit more polished.
Summary
This guide covers four effective methods to clear cache on Windows 10: Disk Cleanup, Microsoft Edge, Windows Update, and Command Prompt. Each method helps free space, boost speed, and fix issues like slow apps or update failures. Suitable for beginners and advanced users, these steps are safe and practical. Enhance your optimized PC with WPS Office, a free suite with Writer, Spreadsheets, and AI tools. Download it from wps.com to stay productive!
