Every web browser stores web pages, images, cookies, and other downloaded content on the computer so that websites can load faster the next time you visit them. This storage space is called the browser's cache. Clearing it occasionally or regularly can protect your privacy and free up some space in your computer.

Since every browser is different, the following sections will outline the steps involved in clearing the cache for several popular web browsers:

Internet Explorer 6

1. Once your browser is open, click on the Tools menu and select Internet Options.
2. Go to the General tab.
3. Click  Delete Files in the Temporary Internet Files section and click OK.
4. If you want your browser to automatically clear the cache whenever you close it, go to the Advanced tab. Click to check the box next to the Empty Temporary Internet Files folder when browser is closed option (in the section labeled Security), then click OK. This will delete everything except cookies.

Internet Explorer 7 (And Above)

1. Once your browser is open, click the Tools menu and select Internet Options.
2. Go to the General tab.
3. Under Browsing History, click Delete.
4. In the new window, click Delete Files in the Temporary Internet Files section. If you want, you can also opt to delete your cookies and browsing history.
5. Alternatively, to clear your cache just for the page you're currently visiting: press and hold Ctrl on your keyboard, then Press F5 or click on the Refresh button (square button on the toolbar with opposite-facing arrows).

Firefox

1. Once your browser is open, click the Tools menu and select Options.
2. Go to the Privacy tab, and click Settings.
3. Select which items you would like to have cleared.
4. Return to the Options menu. If you want your browser to automatically clear the cache whenever you close it, click the appropriate checkbox.
5. Press Clear Now under the Settings button.

Chrome

1. Once your browser is open, click the wrench button and select Options.
2. Go to Under the Hood and under Privacy, click Clear browsing data...
3. In the window that pops up, select the time frame for which you want to clear up your data.
4. Select which items you would like to have cleared, including Empty the cache.
5. Press the Clear browsing data button.

Safari

1. Once your browser is open, click on the cog wheel button and select Reset Safari.
2. In the window that pops up, select Empty the cache.
3. Press Reset button, then restart Safari.

Related Article:

How to delete your browser's cookies