How to Clear Your Cache in Internet Explorer

The address field in Internet Explorer holds the URLs of all the Web sites you have recently visited. This is convenient for you, because you can simply go to the address field, click on the downward arrow and see the addresses for the sites you have been frequenting. You can use these addresses to go right to the site again without manually entering the URL another time. URLs will stay active in the address field for anywhere from a day to several weeks, depending on your previous instructions. However, if you want to clear your cache of URLs in the address field, this is easy to do and takes just a few quick steps to complete.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with a working Internet connection
• Internet Explorer Version 7

Empty Your Cache

1. Get on your computer and start Internet Explorer. If it isn't already installed, visit the Microsoft Web site to download the latest version (see Resources below).
2. Click on 'Tools.'
3. Hit 'Internet Options.'
4. Locate the section under the 'General' tab labeled 'History.'
5. Select 'Clear History.'
6. Click the 'Yes' button when Internet Explorer asks you if you really want to do this.
7. Select 'OK.' Your cache is now clear. You will no longer be able to see what Web sites you have recently visited with Internet Explorer.

Tips & Warnings

• When you need additional help with how to clear your cache in Internet Explorer, visit the Internet Explorer FAQs page (see Resources below).
• Internet Explorer 7 will run on computers using Windows XP, Vista or Server 2003 with a 233MHz processor or higher.
• Enable the automatic updating feature on Windows. This will allow Windows to periodically check for new security risks online. By turning on the automatic update component of Windows, you will be sure that Windows and Internet Explorer are always on the alert and aware of any new dangers so they can protect you and your computer.
• When you clear your cache, new URLs will automatically begin accumulating in the address field as soon as you start entering them. These new URLs will remain cached for as long as Internet Explorer has been programmed to cache them.
• Clearing your cache, as described by this guide, is done using Internet Explorer version 7. If you are running a prior version, you may need to upgrade your browser.