Cache is basically the history stored by a web browser on your computer. It consists of the websites you visit including videos you watch, images and files downloaded. Browser cache is essential because it allows you to navigate easily to sites you visit frequently. It is also disadvantageous because it leaves you vulnerable to hackers who attempt to steal personal information. Clearing browser cache is simple regardless of the web browser you are using.

Internet Explorer Users

Click the Windows "Start" button and click "Internet Explorer" to launch the web browser.

Click the "Safety" (Internet Explorer 8) menu on the top. Place a check on the following categories: Temporary Internet files, Cookies, and History. Click "Delete" to remove browser cache.

Launch Internet Explorer and click the "Tools" button if you are using Internet Explorer 7. Click "Delete browsing history." Click "Delete all" and click "Yes" to confirm and remove browser cache.

Mozilla Firefox users

Launch Mozilla Firefox and click the "Tools" button located on the main menu.

Click "Clear recent history." You are directed to the history configurations screen. Select the time range (e.g. 1 hour, 2 hours) to clear history from. Select "Everything" if you want to remove all stored browser cache.

Click the "Details" arrow and select all the supplied categories. Click "Clear now" and click "Yes" to confirm and remove the browser cache.

Opera users

Launch the Opera web browsing program and click the "Tools" button on the main menu.

Click "Delete private data" and click "Details." A new window opens with the categories to delete files from.

Click "Delete entire cache" and click "Delete." Restart your web browser when the files have been deleted.