Browser cache – what is it and how can I empty it?

Clear cache in Google Chrome

Steps for recent versions of Google Chrome:

• Click the three dots in the top right corner of the browser (Customize and control Google Chrome).
• Go to Settings.
• Scroll down and click on Privacy and Security.
• Click on Clear browsing data.
• Select only Cached images and files.
• Click on Clear data.
• Close the chrome://settings/clearBrowserData tab.

Clear cache in Mozilla Firefox (Windows)

Steps for recent versions of Mozilla Firefox:

1. Click the menu icon (three lines in the top right) and go to Settings.
2. In the left menu, click on Privacy & Security.
3. Scroll down to Cookies and Site Data.
4. Click on Clear Data….
5. Check only Cached Web Content.
6. Click on Clear.
7. Close the about:preferences#privacy tab.

Clear cache in Microsoft Edge

Steps for recent versions of Microsoft Edge:

1. Click the three dots in the top right corner of the browser.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Click on Privacy, search, and services.
4. Scroll down to Clear browsing data and click on Choose what to clear.
5. Select Cached images and files.
6. Click on Clear.

Clear cache in Safari (Mac)

Steps to clear cache files in Safari:

1. Make sure the Develop menu is enabled:
   • Click on Safari in the menu bar.
   • Go to Preferences.
   • Open the Advanced tab.
   • Check the option Show Develop menu in menu bar.
2. Now click on Develop in the menu bar.
3. Select Empty Caches.

Clear cache in Opera

Steps for recent versions of Opera:

1. Click the Opera logo in the top left corner.
2. Go to Settings (or press Alt + P).
3. Scroll down to Privacy and security.
4. Click on Clear browsing data.
5. Select the desired time range.
6. Select only Cached images and files.
7. Click on Clear data.

Important note about Internet Explorer

Microsoft no longer recommends using Internet Explorer. This browser is no longer supported and does not receive updates. Users are advised to switch to a more modern browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox. If using Internet Explorer is still necessary, the compatibility mode in Microsoft Edge can be a suitable alternative.