Boost Your Windows 11 Performance by Clearing Cache

Is your computer desktop starting to look cluttered, and have you noticed a drop in speed? It's probably a good moment to tidy things up a bit. Staying on top of system updates is an essential step for smooth operations, but if you're already current, there are other tricks to get your PC running more efficiently.

Windows comes with several built-in tools designed to declutter your system and improve speed. While they won’t fix large-scale issues, they can streamline performance by removing unnecessary digital baggage.

Using your computer regularly can lead to an accumulation of outdated and corrupted cache files, contributing to sluggish startup times. Removing these and other temporary files can significantly enhance your system's speed and efficiency. Let’s explore how you can do this.

Accessing Cleanup Recommendations on Windows

Windows 11 simplifies the process of identifying files that can be safely deleted, such as large files and unused applications. It’s a smart starting point for optimizing your storage. Follow the steps below to find these tools:

1. Open your Start menu and select Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Storage.
3. Look for an option labeled "Cleanup Recommendations" and click it.

Here, you'll see files from folders like Downloads and the Recycle Bin that can be deleted to free up space. Ensure you've saved anything important from the Downloads folder before proceeding.

You'll be presented with a list of large or redundant files, ready for your review. Often, these include sizable video or image files that you might want to consider before removing.

Further down, you’ll find a list of apps that are rarely or never used. Removing these can also recapture storage space you might need.

Utilizing the Disk Cleanup Feature

Disk Cleanup is a versatile tool available on all Windows versions. It’s simple to launch by entering "Disk Cleanup" in the search box and selecting the tool from the results.

This tool identifies several kinds of cache and temporary files like setup logs and internet temp files that are safe to erase. Select the file types you wish to delete, then click OK to finalize the cleanup.

Clearing the Location Cache

Your PC stores certain data when it syncs its location settings. To unlock extra storage, you can clear this location cache as outlined below:

1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
2. Select Privacy & Security.
3. Locate and clear the "Location history" section by clicking "Clear."

Refreshing the DNS Cache

If you’re experiencing slow internet browsing speeds, a simple DNS cache flush might help. Here’s the straightforward process:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type in the appropriate command and hit Enter to execute it.

Good file management practices are paramount in keeping Windows optimized. Small, regular cleanups not only prevent system bog-down but also maintain peak performance over time.