When using a Mac computer, many applications and websites generate temporary files and caches that can take up valuable storage space on your hard drive. Over time, this can slow down your computer and increase the risk of errors and crashes. Clearing these caches can help improve the performance of your Mac and free up space, but it can be difficult to know where to start.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Clearing the cache on a Mac typically requires no additional tools or programs. All you need is your Mac computer, an internet connection, and a few minutes of your time.
What Should I Pay Attention to?
Before you start clearing your cache, it’s important to remember that doing so will delete certain information from your computer. For example, clearing your browser cache will delete saved passwords, login information, and other data associated with your browsing history. Additionally, clearing certain caches may impact the performance of specific applications or websites. Before proceeding, make sure you have a backup of any important data, and be prepared to re-enter login credentials or other information as needed.
Method 1: Clear Browser Cache (Safari)
1. Open Safari and click on "Safari" in the top menu bar
2. Click on "Preferences"
3. Click on the "Privacy" tab
4. Click on "Manage Website Data"
5. Select the cache you want to delete and click "Remove"
6. Click "Done"
Pros:
– Clears large amount of cache data
– Easy to do
Cons:
– Deletes all saved login information and history
Method 2: Clear Browser Cache (Google Chrome)
1. Open Chrome and click on the three dots in the top right corner
2. Click on "Settings"
3. Scroll down and click on "Advanced"
4. Click on "Clear browsing data"
5. Select the cache you want to delete and click "Clear data"
Pros:
– Clears large amount of cache data
– Easy to do
Cons:
– Deletes all saved login information and history
Method 3: Clear System Cache
1. Open "Finder" and click on "Go" in the top menu bar
2. Hold down the "Option" key and click on "Library"
3. Open the "Caches" folder
4. Select the cache you want to delete and move it to the trash
5. Empty the trash to permanently delete the cache
Pros:
– Clears caches for multiple applications
– Can free up significant amount of space
Cons:
– Deleting certain system caches may cause issues with applications or software updates
Method 4: Use CleanMyMac X
1. Download and install CleanMyMac X
2. Open the program and click on "Smart Scan"
3. Click on "Run" to begin the scan
4. Once the scan is complete, click on "Review Details"
5. Select the cache files you want to clear and click "Clean"
Pros:
– Automatically detects and deletes cache files
– Can free up significant amount of space
Cons:
– Requires purchase of software
Why Can’t I Clear My Cache On My Mac?
1. Some caches are required for applications and cannot be deleted without causing issues.
2. If a program is running, it may be using the cache files that you are trying to delete.
3. Certain caches are protected by the system and cannot be deleted without proper permissions.
Suggestions
– Clearing your cache regularly can help improve the performance of your Mac and free up space.
– Before deleting any caches, make sure you have a backup of any important data.
– Be prepared to re-enter login credentials or other information as needed after clearing your cache.
5 FAQs:
Q:
What is a cache?
A:
A cache is temporary data storage used by applications or websites to speed up the loading of content.
Q:
Does clearing my cache delete my bookmarks?
A:
No, clearing your cache does not delete your bookmarks.
Q:
How often should I clear my cache?
A:
It depends on your usage, but it’s recommended to clear your cache at least once a month.
Q:
Will clearing my cache improve my internet speed?
A:
Yes, clearing your cache can help improve the speed of your internet by removing temporary files and free up space.
Q:
Can I clear only certain caches?
A:
Yes, you can clear specific caches by navigating to the related application or website cache folder and deleting the specific cache files.