Speed Up Windows 11: How to Clear App Cache & Data Fast (2026)

Learn how to clear app cache in Windows 11 to boost performance and free storage space. Use built-in Storage Sense (Settings > System > Storage) for automatic cleanup, or manually clear cache via Windows + R, type “%temp%”, delete all files. Clear Microsoft Store cache with “wsreset.exe” command. Flush DNS using “ipconfig /flushdns” in Terminal. These methods safely remove 5-15GB of temporary files without affecting personal documents or photos. Monthly cache clearing prevents app crashes, speeds up boot times, and resolves performance issues in Windows 11.

Introduction: Why Your Windows 11 PC Feels Slow

You’ve noticed it gradually: Windows 11 takes longer to start, applications hesitate before launching, your web browser stutters when opening new tabs, and your once-responsive PC now feels frustratingly sluggish. Before assuming you need a hardware upgrade or complete system reinstall, there’s a simpler explanation—and solution.

Your Windows 11 system accumulates temporary files, cached data, and leftover fragments from applications that were designed to improve performance but, over time, create the opposite effect. These files pile up invisibly in the background: web browsers cache thousands of images and scripts, Microsoft Store downloads leave residual installation files, system updates create backup copies, and applications store temporary data they never actually delete.

The result? Your speedy SSD gradually fills with gigabytes of unnecessary data. Your processor wastes cycles scanning through outdated cache files. Your applications crash mysteriously because they’re trying to use corrupted temporary data. Your carefully configured Windows 11 system transforms into a digital storage unit for files you didn’t know existed and don’t actually need.

This comprehensive guide demonstrates exactly how to clear app cache and system data in Windows 11, using both automated tools and manual methods. Whether you’re experiencing specific performance problems or simply practicing preventive maintenance, these techniques safely remove unnecessary files, reclaim valuable storage space, and restore your PC’s original responsiveness.

For broader system optimization beyond cache management, our complete guide on optimizing computer performance provides additional techniques for maintaining peak Windows 11 operation.

Understanding App Cache: What It Is and Why It Accumulates

What Is Cache in Windows 11?

Cache represents temporary data that Windows 11 and applications store locally on your hard drive to improve performance and reduce redundant processing. When you visit a website, your browser downloads images, stylesheets, and scripts, then stores copies locally. The next time you visit that same site, your browser loads these cached files from your hard drive rather than re-downloading them from the internet—theoretically saving time and bandwidth.

Similarly, applications cache various types of data:

Web Browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox):

• Website images, icons, and graphics
• JavaScript files and stylesheets
• Cookies and session data
• Downloaded file fragments
• Can accumulate 2-10GB depending on browsing habits

Microsoft Store Applications:

• Installation files from app downloads
• Update packages and delta updates
• Temporary configuration files
• Can accumulate 1-5GB over time

System Cache:

• Windows update installation files
• Temporary system files from installations
• Thumbnail cache for File Explorer
• Font cache and icon cache
• Can accumulate 3-8GB depending on system age and usage

Third-Party Applications:

• Adobe applications cache rendering data
• Microsoft Teams caches meeting recordings and shared files
• Spotify caches downloaded music (even if you stream)
• Gaming platforms cache game assets
• Can accumulate 5-20GB collectively

Why Cache Becomes a Problem

Cache serves a legitimate purpose initially, but several factors transform helpful temporary storage into performance liability:

Problem 1: Cache Never Expires Automatically

Most applications create cache files but implement poor or nonexistent deletion policies. Files intended as “temporary” remain permanently until manually removed. A website you visited once two years ago may still have cached files consuming storage.

Problem 2: Corrupted Cache Causes Crashes

When cache files become corrupted—through interrupted downloads, system crashes during cache writing, or software bugs—applications attempting to use these damaged files experience errors. This manifests as:

• Applications refusing to launch
• Features within apps failing unexpectedly
• Update installations failing
• Random freezes or crashes

Problem 3: Accumulated Cache Slows System Performance

Even uncorrupted cache creates performance problems through sheer volume. When Windows or applications search through directories containing thousands of cached files, the search process itself consumes processing time. Boot operations slow down as Windows scans temp directories. Applications launch slowly as they validate cached data.

Problem 4: Storage Space Consumption

Modern SSDs provide substantial storage, but cache accumulation quietly consumes it. Users suddenly discover their 512GB drive showing only 50GB free space, with no obvious explanation. Cache files, because they’re hidden in system directories, don’t appear in typical storage usage breakdowns.

Benefits of Regular Cache Clearing

Performance Restoration: Removing outdated cache forces applications to rebuild their temporary files fresh, eliminating corrupted data and streamlining stored information. Boot times improve, applications launch faster, and system responsiveness increases measurably.

Storage Recovery: Clearing comprehensive cache can free 5-20GB of storage space—significant for users with smaller SSDs or those managing storage carefully.

Problem Resolution: Many mysterious Windows 11 issues—applications not updating, features failing inexplicably, error messages with cryptic codes—resolve immediately after clearing relevant cache.

Privacy Protection: Cache files often contain fragments of your browsing history, downloaded files, and usage patterns. Clearing cache removes these digital footprints.

Method 1: Automated Cache Cleanup with Storage Sense

Storage Sense represents Windows 11’s built-in automated cleanup system, designed to regularly remove temporary files without user intervention. For most users, enabling Storage Sense provides effective ongoing maintenance requiring minimal effort.

Understanding Storage Sense Capabilities

Storage Sense automatically identifies and removes:

• Temporary files in user and system temp directories
• Files in the Recycle Bin older than specified threshold
• Downloads folder files older than specified threshold (optional)
• Previous Windows versions and installation files
• Thumbnails cache
• Temporary internet files

What Storage Sense Does NOT Remove:

• Application-specific cache (browser cache, Teams cache, etc.)
• User documents, photos, or videos
• Installed applications or their data
• System files necessary for Windows operation

Step-by-Step: Enabling Storage Sense

Step 1: Access Storage Settings

Press Windows + I to open Settings, or:

• Click Start button
• Click Settings (gear icon)
• Navigate to System section
• Select Storage

Step 2: Enable Storage Sense

Locate the Storage Sense toggle switch near the top of the Storage page. Toggle it to the “On” position. This enables Storage Sense but doesn’t configure automatic cleanup intervals yet.

Step 3: Configure Automatic Cleanup

Click on the arrow next to “Storage Sense” or the text “Configure Storage Sense or run it now” to access detailed settings.

Recommended Storage Sense Configuration:

Step 4: Configure Cleanup Options

Scroll down to find additional cleanup options:

“Delete temporary files that my apps aren’t using” – Enable this option. It safely removes temp files that applications no longer actively reference.

“Locally available cloud content” (if using OneDrive) – Choose threshold based on your cloud storage strategy. “After 14 days” works well for users who primarily access recent files.

Step 5: Run Storage Sense Immediately

After configuring settings, scroll to the bottom and click “Run Storage Sense now” to immediately execute cleanup with your new settings. This provides instant storage recovery without waiting for the scheduled interval.

Monitoring Storage Sense Results

After running Storage Sense, Windows displays a summary showing:

• Total space freed
• Categories of files removed
• Current free storage space

Review this summary to understand what Storage Sense removed. If the space recovered seems lower than expected, manual cleanup methods may be necessary for application-specific cache.

Method 2: Manual Cache Cleanup via Temporary File Folders

While Storage Sense handles general system maintenance effectively, it doesn’t access all cache locations. Manual cleanup reaches deeper into system and user temporary file directories that accumulate significant wasted space.

Understanding Windows Temp Directories

Windows 11 maintains multiple temporary file locations serving different purposes:

%temp% (User Temp Directory):

• Path: C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Temp
• Contains: Application-specific temporary files for your user account
• Safety: Safe to delete—applications recreate needed files automatically

temp (System Temp Directory):

• Path: C:\Windows\Temp
• Contains: System-level temporary files, installation residues, Windows update cache
• Safety: Safe to delete with administrator permissions—system recreates as needed

prefetch (Boot Optimization Data):

• Path: C:\Windows\Prefetch
• Contains: Boot optimization data, application launch tracking
• Safety: Safe to delete—Windows rebuilds automatically on next boot

Step-by-Step: Manual Temp File Cleanup

Method A: Using Run Dialog (Easiest)

Step 1: Access User Temp Folder

Press Windows + R simultaneously to open the Run dialog box. Type exactly:

%temp%

Press Enter. File Explorer opens displaying your user temporary files directory.

Step 2: Select All Files

Press Ctrl + A to select all files and folders in the temp directory. Hundreds or thousands of items will be selected depending on how long since your last cleanup.

Step 3: Permanent Deletion

Press Shift + Delete simultaneously to permanently delete selected items (bypassing Recycle Bin).

Windows displays confirmation dialog: “Are you sure you want to permanently delete these items?”

Click “Yes” to confirm.

Step 4: Handle “In Use” Files

During deletion, Windows may display messages indicating certain files are “currently in use” or “access denied.” This is normal and expected. These files are actively being used by running applications or system processes.

For “in use” dialogs, select the checkbox “Do this for all current items” then click “Skip.” This instructs Windows to skip all locked files and delete everything else.

Step 5: Repeat for System Temp

Press Windows + R again. Type:

temp

Press Enter.

If you’re not running as administrator, Windows displays “Access Denied” or requests elevation. Right-click the File Explorer window in the taskbar, right-click “File Explorer” again, and select “Run as administrator.”

Repeat the Ctrl + A, Shift + Delete process for this system temp directory.

Step 6: Clear Prefetch (Optional Advanced)

Press Windows + R and type:

prefetch

Press Enter. Select all and delete using Shift + Delete.

Note: Some sources recommend against deleting prefetch files, arguing they optimize boot performance. However, Windows rebuilds prefetch automatically within 1-2 boots, and clearing it resolves certain boot-related issues. The performance impact of clearing prefetch is negligible on modern SSDs.

Expected Storage Recovery from Manual Cleanup

Method 3: Clearing Microsoft Store and App-Specific Cache

Windows 11’s Microsoft Store and installed applications maintain separate cache systems that general temp cleanup doesn’t address. Application-specific cache often causes the most noticeable performance problems.

Resetting Microsoft Store Cache

The Microsoft Store frequently develops cache corruption, manifesting as:

• Store refusing to open or displaying blank pages
• Apps not downloading or updates failing
• Error codes during app installation
• General Store sluggishness

The WSReset Solution:

Step 1: Open Run Dialog

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.

Step 2: Execute WSReset Command

Type exactly (case doesn’t matter):

wsreset.exe

Press Enter.

Step 3: Wait for Process Completion

A blank black Command Prompt window appears. This window should display no text—just a black screen. Do not close this window manually.

The process typically completes in 10-30 seconds. You’ll know it’s finished when:

• The black window closes automatically
• Microsoft Store opens automatically, displaying the home page

Step 4: Verify Store Operation

Once the Store opens, verify functionality by:

• Browsing the app catalog (should load smoothly)
• Checking for app updates (Library > Get updates)
• Attempting to download a free app to test installation

If Store performance improves noticeably, cache corruption was indeed the issue and is now resolved.

Resetting Individual Application Cache

Modern Microsoft Store apps and many Win32 applications offer built-in reset functions through Windows 11 Settings.

Step-by-Step: Resetting App Data

Step 1: Access Installed Apps

Open Settings (Windows + I), navigate to:

• Apps section in left sidebar
• Click “Installed apps”

Step 2: Locate Target Application

Scroll through the list or use the search box to find the problematic application. Common candidates include:

• Microsoft Teams
• Netflix
• Spotify
• Mail and Calendar
• Photos
• Your Phone
• Any app experiencing crashes or performance issues

Step 3: Access Advanced Options

Click the three dots (…) next to the application name. From the dropdown menu, select “Advanced options.”

Not all applications display this option. If absent, the app doesn’t support built-in reset functionality through Settings.

Step 4: Repair First (Non-Destructive)

In Advanced Options, scroll to the “Reset” section. Two buttons appear:

Repair Button:

• Attempts to fix app issues without deleting data
• Preserves login credentials, preferences, app data
• Takes 10-30 seconds
• No data loss risk

Click “Repair” first. A checkmark appears briefly when complete. Test the application. If issues persist, proceed to reset.

Step 5: Reset If Necessary (Destructive)

Reset Button:

• Completely clears app data and cache
• Deletes login credentials (you’ll need to sign in again)
• Removes app preferences and settings
• Returns app to “fresh install” state
• Takes 10-60 seconds

Click “Reset.” Confirmation dialog appears: “This app’s data will be deleted.”

Click “Reset” again to confirm.

Step 6: Reconfigure Application

After reset completes, launch the application. You’ll need to:

• Sign in again with credentials
• Reconfigure any preferences or settings
• Accept any required permissions

The application should now function as if freshly installed, with all cache and corrupted data removed.

Browser Cache Clearing (Major Space Recovery)

Web browsers accumulate the most cache of any application category. Clearing browser cache requires browser-specific procedures.

Microsoft Edge (Built into Windows 11):

1. Open Edge
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to open Clear Browsing Data
3. Select “All time” from time range dropdown
4. Check: Browsing history, Cookies, Cached images and files
5. Click “Clear now”

Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
3. Select “All time”
4. Check: Browsing history, Cookies, Cached images and files
5. Click “Clear data”

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
3. Select “Everything” from time range
4. Check: Browsing & Download History, Cookies, Cache
5. Click “Clear Now”

Browser cache clearing can recover 2-10GB depending on browsing intensity and cleanup frequency.

Method 4: Flushing DNS Cache for Network Performance

While not strictly “app cache,” the DNS (Domain Name System) cache affects internet performance and can cause connection problems when outdated or corrupted.

Understanding DNS Cache Issues

Your Windows 11 system maintains a local cache of DNS lookups—translations between website names (google.com) and their IP addresses (172.217.160.78). This cache prevents repeated DNS queries for frequently visited sites, theoretically speeding up browsing.

However, DNS cache causes problems when:

• Websites change IP addresses (server migrations, load balancing changes)
• DNS cache becomes corrupted
• Local network configuration changes
• VPN connections modify DNS settings

Symptoms of DNS Cache Problems:

• Websites not loading despite working internet connection
• Error messages like “DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN”
• Slow initial page loads even on fast connections
• Some websites accessible while others fail inexplicably

Step-by-Step: Flushing DNS Cache

Step 1: Open Terminal as Administrator

Right-click the Start button (or press Windows + X). From the menu, select:

• “Terminal (Admin)” on systems using Windows Terminal
• “Command Prompt (Admin)” on systems using classic Command Prompt

Click “Yes” when User Account Control asks for permission.

Step 2: Execute DNS Flush Command

In the Terminal window, type exactly:

ipconfig /flushdns

Press Enter.

Step 3: Confirm Success

Windows displays confirmation message:

Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.

The operation completes instantly—no progress bar or waiting period required.

Step 4: Verify Network Operation

Open your web browser and test accessing websites that previously experienced issues. The first load of each site may be slightly slower as Windows performs fresh DNS lookups, but subsequent access should be fast and reliable.

Additional Network Cache Commands

While flushing DNS, you can reset additional network components that sometimes cause connectivity issues:

Reset Winsock (Network Protocol Stack):

netsh winsock reset

Requires restart to take full effect.

Reset IP Configuration:

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

Temporarily disconnects network connection then renews it—useful for resolving DHCP issues.

Method 5: Disk Cleanup Tool for Comprehensive System Cleaning

Windows 11 retains the classic Disk Cleanup utility from previous Windows versions, offering access to additional cleanup categories beyond Storage Sense capabilities.

Accessing Disk Cleanup

Method A: Via File Explorer

1. Open File Explorer (Windows + E)
2. Right-click your C: drive
3. Select “Properties”
4. Click “Disk Cleanup” button
5. Wait while Disk Cleanup scans for removable files

Method B: Via Run Dialog

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type: cleanmgr
3. Press Enter
4. Select C: drive from dropdown if prompted

Using Disk Cleanup Effectively

Standard Cleanup Options:

When Disk Cleanup opens, it displays checkboxes for various file categories:

Check all recommended categories, then click “OK” and “Delete Files” to confirm.

Advanced Cleanup (System Files):

Click “Clean up system files” button to access additional categories:

The “Previous Windows installations” option provides the most storage recovery but removes your ability to roll back to the previous Windows version. Only select this after confirming Windows 11 stability on your system (typically after 30 days).

Storage Recovered via Disk Cleanup

Comprehensive Disk Cleanup with system files typically recovers:

• Light users: 3-8GB
• Moderate users: 8-15GB
• Heavy users or after major updates: 15-30GB

Cleanup Effectiveness Comparison Table

Advanced Cache Cleaning: Third-Party Application Cache

Some applications store cache in custom locations that Windows tools don’t access automatically. These require manual intervention.

Microsoft Teams Cache

Teams aggressively caches meeting recordings, shared files, and chat media, often accumulating 5-10GB.

Location:

%appdata%\Microsoft\Teams\Cache

Clearing Teams Cache:

1. Completely close Teams (right-click system tray icon, select Quit)
2. Press Windows + R
3. Type: %appdata%\Microsoft\Teams
4. Delete these folders: Cache, blob_storage, databases, GPUcache, IndexedDB, Local Storage, tmp
5. Restart Teams

Adobe Application Cache

Adobe Creative Cloud applications cache rendering data and thumbnails extensively.

Location (varies by application):

%appdata%\Adobe\[ApplicationName]\[Version]\Cache

Clearing Adobe Cache:

Most Adobe applications include built-in cache management:

1. Open the Adobe application
2. Navigate to Edit > Preferences
3. Look for “Media Cache” or “Performance” section
4. Click “Clean” or “Empty Cache” button

Spotify Cache

Spotify caches streamed music even for non-Premium users, potentially consuming 5-10GB.

Clear via Spotify Settings:

1. Open Spotify
2. Settings > Storage
3. Click “Clear Cache”

Preventing Cache Accumulation: Proactive Maintenance

Rather than reactive cleanup when performance degrades, implement proactive strategies preventing excessive cache buildup.

Strategy 1: Configure Storage Sense for Aggressive Cleanup

Modify Storage Sense settings for more frequent maintenance:

• Run frequency: Every week (instead of monthly)
• Temporary file deletion: Always (instead of when space is low)
• Recycle Bin threshold: 14 days (instead of 30)

Strategy 2: Browser Auto-Cleanup Extensions

Install browser extensions that automatically clear cache on browser close:

• Clear Cache (Chrome/Edge)
• Cookie AutoDelete (Firefox)

Configure these to preserve login sessions for essential sites while clearing everything else.

Strategy 3: Disable Hibernation (If Not Used)

Hibernation file (hiberfil.sys) can consume 8-16GB storing RAM contents. If you never use hibernation:

1. Open Terminal (Admin)
2. Type: powercfg /h off
3. Press Enter

This immediately deletes the hibernation file, recovering substantial storage.

Strategy 4: Reduce System Restore Storage

System Restore consumes storage for restore points. Reduce allocation if you don’t use this feature:

1. Search for “Create a restore point”
2. Select C: drive, click Configure
3. Reduce “Max Usage” slider to 2-5% (from default 10%+)

Strategy 5: Relocate Large Folders to Different Drive

If you have multiple drives, move inherently large folders:

Downloads Folder:

1. Right-click Downloads folder in File Explorer
2. Properties > Location tab
3. Click “Move” and select location on secondary drive

This prevents your system drive from filling with downloaded files.

For comprehensive system optimization beyond cache management, explore our detailed guide on optimizing computer performance for additional Windows 11 enhancement techniques.

Troubleshooting: When Cache Clearing Doesn’t Fix Performance

If performance problems persist after thorough cache clearing, investigate these alternative causes:

Problem 1: Excessive Startup Programs

Symptoms: Slow boot times, sluggish performance immediately after startup

Solution:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Task Manager)
2. Startup Apps tab
3. Disable programs you don’t need at startup
4. Restart to apply changes

Problem 2: Malware or Unwanted Programs

Symptoms: Unexplained storage consumption returns rapidly after cleanup, mysterious background processes

Solution:

1. Run Windows Security full scan
2. Use additional scanner like Malwarebytes (free version)
3. Check installed programs for unfamiliar software
4. Uninstall suspicious programs

Problem 3: Outdated or Corrupted Drivers

Symptoms: Specific hardware not performing well, crashes during certain activities

Solution:

1. Press Windows + X, select Device Manager
2. Look for yellow warning triangles
3. Update drivers via Windows Update or manufacturer websites
4. Consider Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) for graphics issues

Problem 4: Insufficient RAM

Symptoms: System slows dramatically when multiple applications open, frequent disk activity LED

Solution:

• Check RAM usage in Task Manager (Performance tab)
• If consistently above 80%, consider RAM upgrade
• Close unnecessary background applications
• Reduce browser tabs (each tab consumes RAM)

Problem 5: Failing Hard Drive or SSD

Symptoms: Increasing slowness over time, clicking noises (HDD), random freezes, file corruption

Solution:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin)
2. Type: wmic diskdrive get status
3. If status shows anything except “OK,” drive may be failing
4. Run: chkdsk C: /f /r (requires restart)
5. Back up data immediately if drive failure suspected

For Windows 11 systems experiencing activation-related performance issues, our guide on fixing Windows activation addresses another common concern that can impact system functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing Windows 11 Cache

Will clearing app cache delete my personal files like photos and documents?

No. Clearing app cache only removes temporary files that applications create to improve their own performance. Your personal documents stored in Documents folder, photos in Pictures folder, videos, downloads, and any files you deliberately saved remain completely untouched. Cache clearing targets only temporary working files in specific system directories (AppData, Windows Temp, browser cache folders) that applications can regenerate automatically. The only exception is if you manually navigate to your Documents or Pictures folders and delete files—but none of the methods described in this guide involve accessing those directories.

How often should I clear cache in Windows 11?

For optimal performance, implement a two-tier approach: (1) Enable Storage Sense to automatically clean temporary files monthly or when storage runs low—this provides ongoing maintenance requiring zero effort. (2) Perform comprehensive manual cleanup (temp folders, browser cache, Disk Cleanup) every 1-3 months depending on usage intensity. Heavy users (frequent software installations, extensive browsing, lots of application use) benefit from monthly comprehensive cleaning. Light users can extend this to quarterly. Signs you need immediate cache clearing include: sudden performance degradation, mysterious storage consumption, application crashes or update failures, or sluggish startup times.

Why is my computer still slow after clearing all cache?

Cache accumulation represents just one potential performance bottleneck. If thorough cache clearing doesn’t restore responsiveness, investigate these common culprits: (1) Excessive startup programs launching at boot—disable unnecessary startup items via Task Manager. (2) Insufficient RAM—if Task Manager shows consistently high memory usage (80%+), you may need RAM upgrade or should close background applications. (3) Malware or unwanted software consuming resources—run comprehensive security scan. (4) Outdated or corrupted drivers—update via Device Manager or manufacturer websites. (5) Failing hard drive or SSD—run diagnostic tools to check drive health. (6) Windows Update pending restart—some updates require reboot to complete installation.

Can I use third-party cache cleaner programs instead of Windows tools?

While reputable third-party cleaners like CCleaner exist, Windows 11’s built-in tools (Storage Sense, Disk Cleanup, manual temp folder clearing) provide comprehensive cache cleaning without risks associated with third-party software. Many “PC cleaner” programs are actually malware in disguise, promising performance improvements while installing unwanted software or even ransomware. Others are legitimate but overly aggressive, potentially deleting files needed for system stability or application functionality. If you choose third-party tools, research thoroughly, download only from official sources, and avoid programs making exaggerated claims (“500% faster PC!”). For most users, Windows native tools supplemented by the manual methods in this guide provide safer, equally effective alternatives.

Will clearing Microsoft Store cache make me re-download all my apps?

No. Clearing Microsoft Store cache via the wsreset command only removes temporary files the Store uses for its own operation—not your installed applications or their data. Your installed apps remain installed and functional. Your app settings, game progress, documents created within apps, and login credentials all persist unchanged. The wsreset command specifically targets corrupted temporary files that prevent the Store from functioning properly—things like cached store pages, download manifests, and installation temporary files. After running wsreset, you don’t need to reinstall anything. The Store simply opens with a fresh cache, ready to browse and download as usual.

Does clearing cache affect my game saves and progress?

For Microsoft Store games and most modern PC games, no—game saves store separately from cache. Microsoft Store games sync saves to the cloud automatically (if online), while most PC games store saves in dedicated locations (Documents\My Games, AppData\Roaming[GameName], or within the game installation folder under a “saves” directory). Clearing system cache, temp folders, or even resetting the game application typically doesn’t affect these save locations. However, before resetting any game application via Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > Advanced Options > Reset, verify save file location to ensure cloud sync is enabled or create manual backup. Some older games or poorly designed applications might store saves in temp directories—rare but possible. When in doubt, search “[game name] save file location” to verify before cache clearing.

Is it safe to delete everything in the Prefetch folder?

Yes, deleting all files in C:\Windows\Prefetch is safe and Windows rebuilds the folder automatically. Prefetch contains data Windows uses to optimize application launch times by pre-loading frequently accessed files into RAM. Some users worry that deleting prefetch will slow their system, but the performance impact is negligible, especially on modern SSDs. Windows recreates prefetch data within 1-2 boot cycles based on actual usage patterns. Clearing prefetch can actually help resolve certain boot-related issues or application launch problems caused by corrupted prefetch data. The primary reason to clear prefetch is not storage recovery (it typically contains only 50-200MB) but rather troubleshooting application launch failures or boot optimization issues.

Cache Clearing Maintenance Schedule

Establish a regular maintenance routine to keep Windows 11 running optimally:

Weekly Maintenance (Automated – 0 Minutes)

• Storage Sense runs automatically (if configured)
• No manual action required

Monthly Maintenance (15-20 Minutes)

1. Clear %temp% folder manually (5 min)
2. Clear browser cache (3 min per browser)
3. Run Disk Cleanup standard scan (5 min)
4. Empty Recycle Bin (1 min)
5. Check storage usage and review large files (5 min)

Quarterly Maintenance (30-45 Minutes)

1. Run Disk Cleanup with system files (10 min)
2. Clear all three temp directories (temp, %temp%, prefetch) (10 min)
3. Review and reset problematic applications (10 min)
4. Clear third-party app caches (Teams, Adobe, Spotify) (10 min)
5. Flush DNS cache (1 min)
6. Review startup programs (5 min)

Annual Maintenance (1-2 Hours)

1. Comprehensive cleanup using all methods
2. Uninstall unused applications
3. Archive old files to external storage
4. Review and optimize system settings
5. Consider fresh Windows installation if system age exceeds 3 years

Additional Resources for Windows 11 Optimization

For authoritative information on Windows 11 maintenance and performance optimization:

• Microsoft Windows Support: support.microsoft.com/windows – Official Microsoft documentation on Storage Sense, Disk Cleanup, and system maintenance
• Microsoft Community: answers.microsoft.com – Community forums with expert moderators helping solve Windows-specific issues

These official Microsoft resources provide current, verified information on Windows 11 features and troubleshooting procedures.

For broader educational resources on technology topics and computer maintenance, explore additional guides at Gloobia’s education section.

Conclusion: Maintaining Peak Windows 11 Performance

Regular cache clearing represents essential maintenance for keeping Windows 11 responsive, preventing application crashes, and reclaiming valuable storage space. The good news: Windows 11 provides robust built-in tools making this maintenance accessible even for non-technical users.

For most users, enabling Storage Sense provides effective automated maintenance requiring minimal effort. Supplement this with monthly manual temp folder cleaning and browser cache clearing for comprehensive maintenance preventing performance degradation. When specific issues arise—Microsoft Store errors, application crashes, network connectivity problems—targeted cache clearing for those specific components often provides immediate resolution.

The methods outlined in this guide safely remove 5-25GB of unnecessary data while preserving all your personal files, application data, and system stability. Establishing a regular maintenance routine—even simple monthly cache clearing—prevents the gradual performance decline that makes computers feel increasingly sluggish over time.

Remember that cache clearing addresses temporary file accumulation but represents just one aspect of system maintenance. Keeping Windows updated, managing startup programs, maintaining adequate free storage space, and practicing safe computing habits all contribute to long-term system health and performance.

With the techniques in this guide, you’re equipped to keep your Windows 11 system running at peak performance, maintaining the responsiveness and speed you experienced when your system was new.

For additional technology guidance and system optimization resources, visit Gloobia where we provide comprehensive guides for maintaining and optimizing your computing experience.

Quick Reference: Cache Clearing Commands

Keep this reference handy for quick cache clearing:

Run Dialog Commands (Windows + R)

%temp%          → User temporary files
temp            → System temporary files  
prefetch        → Boot optimization files
wsreset.exe     → Microsoft Store cache reset
cleanmgr        → Disk Cleanup utility

Terminal Commands (Admin Required)

ipconfig /flushdns              → Clear DNS cache
netsh winsock reset             → Reset network stack
powercfg /h off                 → Disable hibernation

Browser Cache Shortcuts

Ctrl + Shift + Delete           → Open cache clearing dialog (all browsers)

Storage Locations to Remember

C:\Windows\Temp                                          → System temp
C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Temp                  → User temp
C:\Windows\Prefetch                                      → Prefetch data
%appdata%\Microsoft\Teams                                → Teams cache
C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default\Cache  → Edge cache

Nishant Sharma