This KBA provides a comprehensive guide on clearing browser cache, cookies, and history across different web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. It explains what cache and cookies are, why clearing them is important, and offers step-by-step instructions for both desktop and mobile users. Additionally, it includes a quick shortcut for Windows users and a troubleshooting section to help resolve common browsing issues.

How to Clear Browser Cache, Cookies, and History

Overview

Each time you access a website through your web browser, the browser stores (caches) data, including images and site files. This helps load pages faster when revisiting them. However, cached data and cookies can cause issues, such as retaining outdated login credentials or website errors. Periodically clearing this data can improve browser performance and security.

What Are Cookies and Cache?

• Cache: A temporary storage location where browsers save web page elements to speed up future visits.

• Cookies: Small files stored on your computer by websites to remember user preferences, login credentials, and site settings.

• Clearing Cache and Cookies: Helps prevent login issues, outdated page errors, and slow performance.

Quick Method to Clear Browser Data (Windows)

Press CTRL + SHIFT + DELETE while in your browser to open the clear browsing data menu.

Step-by-Step Guide for Different Browsers

Google Chrome (Windows, macOS, Linux)

1. Open Chrome.

2. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Settings.

3. Navigate to Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.

4. Choose the time range and select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.

5. Click Clear data.

Mozilla Firefox (Windows, macOS)

1. Open Firefox.

2. Click the three-line menu in the top-right corner and select Settings.

3. Go to Privacy & Security.

4. Under Cookies and Site Data, click Clear Data.

5. Select both options and click Clear.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge.

2. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Settings.

3. Go to Privacy, search, and services.

4. Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.

5. Select the desired data types and click Clear now.

Safari (macOS)

1. Open Safari.

2. Click Safari in the top menu and select Preferences.

3. Go to the Privacy tab and click Manage Website Data.

4. Click Remove All and confirm.

Safari (iOS – iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch)

1. Open Settings.

2. Scroll down and tap Safari.

3. Tap Clear History and Website Data and confirm.

Conclusion

Clearing cache, cookies, and browsing history regularly helps maintain a smooth browsing experience and resolves login issues. If problems persist, try restarting your browser or device. For further assistance, contact the CWI Help Desk at helpdesk@cwi.edu.