5 Quick & Safe Ways: How to Clear Cache in Microsoft Edge

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).

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✅ Resolves login problems (outdated cached credentials)

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Edge Cache Management Comparison Table

Method	Speed	Data Kept	Best For
Keyboard Shortcut	⚡⚡⚡⚡	History/Passwords	Quick fixes
Selective Clear	⚡⚡⚡	Custom selection	Precise control
Auto-Clear	⚡⚡	Session data	Privacy protection
Site-Specific	⚡⚡⚡	All other sites	Troubleshooting
Full Reset	⚡	Nothing	Major issues

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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.

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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.

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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