What is cache?

In this digital age, there are no limitations of buzzwords to grab your attention. Cache is certainly one of them. It is often thrown around, and in computing terms, cache (pronounced as CASH) is a temporary storage of data in a reserved location to help websites, browsers, and apps load faster. This temporary data, when requested again in the future, helps the device to load the information faster.   

Cache is generally a result of the earlier computation or a copy of data stored elsewhere. Thus, it builds up over a period of time. Clearing cache is a nifty effort to optimise performance. But too much cache is just counterproductive, and rather than faster load time, it slows down your device. So, it is generally advised as a good practice to clear the cache from time to time.   

How to clear cache on your laptop?   

Clearing the cache means removing temporary files from your browser. For Windows users, you can hit a combination of buttons to directly reach the “Clear Browsing data” page. After opening the browser, simply hit Ctrl + Shift + Delete. For clearing system-wide temporary files in Windows, you can search Run the app, and once it is open simply type %temp%. You will be shown all the temporary system-wide files.   

 For Mac, open Safari, and hit the shortcut Command + Alt + E. One thing to note is that clearing the cache will close any tabs that are currently open and likely log you out of any website as well.