What gets removed when you clear the cache?
Asked by: Dr. Macie Jerde I | Last update: February 5, 2026Score: 4.6/5 (75 votes)
Clearing the cache removes temporary files like images, scripts, and other data that websites and apps store to load faster, freeing up space and fixing glitches, but it also signs you out of accounts and requires sites to reload from scratch, potentially slowing initial visits while they redownload assets. It generally does not delete personal files, bookmarks, or your main browsing history (just the temporary data), though some settings and sign-in information are cleared, meaning you'll need to log back in.
Will clearing my cache delete anything?
Yes, clearing the cache deletes temporary files (like images, scripts, and data) that apps and browsers use for faster loading, but it generally does not delete your important personal data like bookmarks, saved passwords, photos, or account information; clearing data (separate from cache) does that, resetting the app. Clearing cache just means things might load a bit slower the next time you visit a site or use an app because they need to be re-downloaded from the server.
What am I deleting when I clear the cache?
When you clear your cache, you remove temporary files like images, scripts, and HTML pages that your browser or app saved to load websites and apps faster, but you don't delete personal data, settings, or bookmarks; however, you will be signed out of websites and apps and need to log back in, and the next time you visit a site, it might load slower as it re-downloads everything fresh.
Is it better to clear storage or clear cache?
It's better to clear the cache first as it's a quick fix for app glitches and frees up minor space without losing data; only clear storage (data) as a last resort when cache clearing fails, as it resets the app, deleting logins, settings, and preferences, like a fresh install. Think of cache as temporary files (like website images) and data as your personal settings and saved info.
Is clearing the cache the same as clearing browsing history?
No, clearing the cache and clearing browsing history are not the same, though they are often done together in browser settings and both remove data from your computer; the cache stores website files (images, scripts) for faster loading, while history is just a list of visited URLs, and clearing the cache forces a fresh download, while clearing history removes the record of visits.
What Happens When You Clear Cached Data for All Apps !
What are the disadvantages of clearing the cache?
Clearing cache and cookies can solve problems, but they change how websites behave afterward. Here's what to expect: Clearing the cache: Pages may load slower at first because your browser needs to re-download all the images, code, and other files. Once fresh files are cached again, speed returns to normal.
Is it better to clear cache or clear cookies?
Clearing cache and cookies can be beneficial in certain situations. Cookies store information about your browsing habits and preferences, while the cache stores temporary data to improve website loading speed. Clearing them can help resolve issues like website errors or slow loading.
Will I lose passwords if I clear cache?
Note: Clearing cache and cookie history can also eliminate saved passwords. Not all browsers have options to prevent this, although Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Internet Explorer have that option.
Will clearing the cache delete my text messages?
If you delete the cache it won't delete your old messages. But if you delete DATA, it absolutely will.
What's the difference between clearing a cache and clearing data?
Clear cache removes temporary files (images, scripts) for faster loading but keeps your data; it's safe for minor glitches. Clear data (or storage) deletes everything—login info, settings, saved progress—resetting the app like a fresh install, used as a last resort for major issues. Use cache clearing for sluggish apps and data clearing when troubleshooting severe problems or wanting a complete reset.
Does clearing cache delete photos?
No, clearing your app or browser cache generally does not delete your actual photos; it only removes temporary files like thumbnails or previews to free up space and fix glitches, leaving your original, full-resolution pictures on your device or in the cloud untouched, though they might take a moment to reload. Your photos are stored as permanent data, not temporary cache.
How often should I clear cache?
How often this happens can change depending on what you do online and how often you visit the same websites. However, for a typical internet user, our suggestion is to empty your cache approximately once or twice every month.
Why would you want to clear your cache?
Clearing your browser cache and cookies is important when you find yourself troubleshooting for an Internet browsing issue. 'Cache' will sometimes cause an issue if a website has been updated and developed as files which were saved in your cache. These saved files may conflict with the code for that specific website.
Do I need to restart the browser after clearing the cache?
IMPORTANT: Be sure and close/quit the browser and restart it after clearing the cache and cookies.
What do I lose if I clear browsing data?
Browsing history: Deleting your browsing history deletes the following:
- Web addresses that you've visited are removed from the History page.
- Shortcuts to those pages are removed from the New Tab page.
- Address bar predictions for those websites are no longer shown.
What data is stored in the cache?
A simple cache definition is a temporary storage location that stores data, files, and login details for applications and websites on a device's memory.
Will I lose my emails if I clear the cache?
It's important to note that clearing the cache will not delete any personal data, such as photos or contacts. It will only remove temporary files that are no longer needed.
What will I lose when I clear my cache?
Clearing the cache deletes the temporary files stored by your browser. It's a common fix when a website starts acting up because it forces your browser to download the most up-to-date version of a site's assets the next time you visit.
How do I free up space on my Android without deleting everything?
- Close apps that don't respond. You don't usually need to close apps. ...
- Uninstall apps you don't use. If you uninstall an app and need it later, you can download it again. ...
- Clear the app's cache & data. You can usually clear an app's cache and data with your phone's Settings app.
Does clear cache delete memories?
Clearing your cache will not remove any critical or saved data, such as your login credentials, account information, friends list, downloaded files, Memories, Snaps, or Chats.
Will I be logged out if I clear the cache?
After you clear cache and cookies: Some settings on sites get deleted. For example, if you were signed in, you'll need to sign in again. Some sites can seem slower because content, like images, needs to load again.
Why did all of my passwords disappear?
The unexpected removal of saved passwords in Chrome might have various causes. This includes: browser updates, sync issues, user profile corruption, the antivirus or cleaning software impact, accidental user actions.
What are the disadvantages of clearing cache?
Yes, clearing the cache has minor downsides: websites load slower initially as they re-download data, you'll be logged out of sites, and saved preferences or settings might be lost, requiring you to sign in and reconfigure them. The main benefit is resolving issues and freeing space, but the temporary slowdown and logouts are the primary drawbacks, as the cache rebuilds itself.
Can anyone see your search history after you delete it?
Yes, someone can still see your search history even if you delete it from your browser because your Internet Service Provider (ISP), Google/other search engines, and websites often log your activity separately, and data can linger on their servers or be accessed through other means like keyloggers or network monitoring, especially on shared networks. Deleting your history only removes it from your device; it doesn't erase copies held by third parties or on their servers, notes NordVPN and Startpage.com Blog.
What happens if you never clear your cache?
However, over time, the cache can build up and cause problems: Takes up storage space: The cache can grow large, filling up valuable storage on your computer or device. Outdated data: If your browser uses old cached files, websites may not load correctly or display outdated content.