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If you’re experiencing slow browsing or website errors, learning how to clear cache in Microsoft Edge can instantly boost performance. This comprehensive guide covers 5 proven methods to remove temporary files, with step-by-step instructions for all Edge versions (Windows, Mac, Mobile).

Table of Contents

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Why Clearing Edge Cache Matters

Before we explore how to clear cache in Microsoft Edge, let’s understand why it’s essential:

✅ Fixes loading issues (broken pages, formatting errors)
✅ Protects privacy (removes stored site data)
✅ Saves disk space (clears gigabytes of temp files)
✅ Improves speed (faster page loads)
✅ Resolves login problems (outdated cached credentials)


Method 1: Basic Cache Clear (Ctrl+Shift+Del Shortcut)

The fastest way to clear Edge cache:

  1. Open Edge and press Ctrl+Shift+Delete
  2. Select time range:
    • Last hour (quick fix)
    • All time (thorough clean)
  3. Check “Cached images and files”
  4. Click “Clear now”

✅ Pros: Instant, no settings navigation needed
❌ Cons: Doesn’t clear advanced data types


Method 2: Selective Cache Clearing

For precise control:

  1. Go to Edge Settings → Privacy, search, and services
  2. Under “Clear browsing data”, click “Choose what to clear”
  3. Select:
    • Cached images/files
    • Cookies (optional)
    • Site permissions
  4. Click “Clear now”

📌 When to use: When you need to keep passwords/history but remove cache.


Method 3: Automated Cache Clearing on Exit

Set Edge to auto-clear cache:

  1. Navigate to Settings → Privacy, search, and services
  2. Enable “Choose what to clear every time you close the browser”
  3. Toggle “Cached images and files”
  4. Relaunch Edge

🔒 Best for: Shared computers or privacy-focused users.


Method 4: Clear Cache for Specific Sites Only

Fix single-site issues without full reset:

  1. Right-click the padlock icon in address bar
  2. Select “Site permissions” → “View permissions”
  3. Click “Clear data” next to storage usage
  4. Confirm with “Clear”

🌐 Works for: Stubborn sites like Facebook, YouTube, or banking portals.


Method 5: Nuclear Option (Reset Edge Completely)

When standard methods fail:

  1. Go to Settings → Reset settings
  2. Click “Restore settings to default”
  3. Enable “Clear browsing data” checkbox
  4. Select “Reset”

⚠️ Warning: This removes extensions/themes too. Backup first.


Edge Cache Management Comparison Table

MethodSpeedData KeptBest For
Keyboard Shortcut⚡⚡⚡⚡History/PasswordsQuick fixes
Selective Clear⚡⚡⚡Custom selectionPrecise control
Auto-Clear⚡⚡Session dataPrivacy protection
Site-Specific⚡⚡⚡All other sitesTroubleshooting
Full ResetNothingMajor issues

Advanced Cache Management Tips

🔧 Disk Cleanup Utility (Windows):

  1. Search for “Disk Cleanup”
  2. Select “Microsoft Edge” in file list
  3. Delete temporary files

📁 Manual Cache Location (Advanced Users):

  • Windows: %LocalAppData%\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default\Cache
  • Mac: ~/Library/Caches/Microsoft/Edge

💡 Bonus: Use CCleaner for automated system-wide cache cleaning.


FAQs: Clearing Edge Cache

1. Will clearing cache delete passwords?

No, unless you specifically select “Passwords” during cleanup.

2. How often should I clear Edge cache?

Monthly for most users; weekly if you visit many media-heavy sites.

3. Does clearing cache speed up Edge?

Yes, especially if you haven’t cleared it in 6+ months.

4. Why does cache rebuild immediately?

Normal behavior – Edge recreates cache files for visited sites.

5. Can I set cache size limits?

Not natively, but extensions like Cache Limiter can help.


When Clearing Cache Doesn’t Help

If issues persist:

  1. Update Edge (edge://settings/help)
  2. Disable problematic extensions
  3. Scan for malware (Microsoft Defender)
  4. Try Edge Beta for latest fixes

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