How do I clear my cache, cookies, and internet browsing history?

Answer

When searching for a page on the internet, content is downloaded to your computer that allows you to view that page. That content gets stored and builds up over time. That content comes in the form of History, Cookies,
Browsing Data, Cache, and log-in data.


History – history is a running log of pages and sites you have visited. This will tell you what page you
have visited and on what day.
Cookies – Cookies are small text files that are download by web pages to your computer. These files
store your site preferences such as your name, email, and interests.
Browsing Data – Browsing Data is a running log of searches that have been performed by you.
Cache – Cache is a collection of data that has been downloaded from websites to provide easier loading
instead of re-downloading each time you visit that site.
Log-In Data – When you visit a site you have to sign-in to or keep personal information, this gets stored
as Log-In Data. This is used so that you do not have to repeatedly enter in the same information.

To clear all this data on any browser, you can simply press [CTRL] + [SHIFT] + [DELETE] on your keyboard when an internet browser is open. This will open up the clear history dialog box.  Below is an example of the clear history box that displays for Firefox. 


Clearing this data will not only free up space on your hard drive but also speed up your computer by
eliminating unnecessary waste. Clearing these items should be looked at carefully. Deleting something
such as Active Logins will remove any saved passwords and log-in information. These items should only
be deleted if you are absolutely sure you wish to do so.

To clear your cache, cookies, and browsing history in Internet Explorer, do the following:

  1. From the top tool bar, click on Tools
  2. Click on Internet Options
  3. Click on Delete in the Browsing History section
  4. Delete the following from the Delete Browsing History menu:
    1. Preserve Favorites Website Data
    2. Temporary Internet Files
    3. Cookies
    4. History

For Google Chrome and other browsers go to: https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/32050?hl=en for more information. 

  • Last Updated May 14, 2021
  • Views 2455
  • Answered By Bethany Marston, Learning Services Coordinator

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