Chrome stores cached resources to help websites load efficiently. Over time, that cache can become large or contain outdated files, so clearing it can sometimes help with website problems.
The important point is that clearing cache is different from deleting saved passwords.
Open Chrome’s clearing options
Open Chrome and open the browser’s privacy or browsing-data settings.
Choose the option for clearing browsing data.
Chrome lets you choose categories of data and a time range.
Select cached images and files
If your goal is simply to clear the cache, select Cached images and files.
Review the other categories before checking them. Browsing history, cookies, and site data have different effects.
You do not need to select saved passwords just to clear the cache.
Be careful with cookies
Cookies can keep you signed in to websites and store site preferences.
Deleting cookies can sign you out of websites, so do not remove them unless you actually need to.
If a particular website is broken, clearing data for that specific site can sometimes be a better approach than clearing everything.
Saved passwords are separate
Chrome’s saved passwords are managed separately from cached files.
If you are worried about losing passwords, verify that Saved passwords is not selected in the data-clearing screen.
You can also check Chrome’s password manager before making changes.
Clear cache when a site behaves strangely
A stale cache can occasionally contribute to display problems after a website changes.
If one site looks broken while others work normally, first try refreshing it. If that does not help, clearing relevant site data or cache may be worth trying.
Do not expect a permanent speed boost
Clearing cache is troubleshooting, not a guaranteed performance upgrade.
Chrome will rebuild cache files as you browse. Therefore, the browser may eventually use storage again.
For more ways to speed up Chrome, see how to make Google Chrome use less RAM, or how to stop websites from sending notifications in Chrome.
Frequently asked questions
Does clearing Chrome cache delete passwords?
Not if you only select cached images and files. Saved passwords are a separate category.
Will clearing cache log me out?
Clearing only the cache generally does not have the same effect as deleting cookies and site data.
How often should I clear Chrome cache?
There is no need to clear it on a fixed schedule. Use it when troubleshooting storage or website-loading problems.
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