Clear Cache and Cookies (Temporary Internet Files) from Google Chrome

Environment

 Google Chrome Browser, Mac or Windows

Issue

Clearing potentially corrupted cache, cookies, or other temporary internet files from the Google Chrome browser

Resolution

  1. Open Chrome on your computer.
    1. Note: If you already have multiple Chrome windows or tabs open, close all but one.
  2. At the top right, click the three vertical dots.
  3. Click Delete browsing data...
    1. Alternatively, you may navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Delete Browsing Data.
  4. At the top, choose a time range. To delete everything, select All time.
  5. Next to "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files," check the boxes.
  6. Click Delete data.
    1. It can take a few minutes to clear the cache depending on how long it has been accumulating.
  7. Quit Chrome.
  8. Restart your computer.

Keyboard Shortcut

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete to quickly access the "Delete Browsing Data" window.
    • Choose the Time Range for All Time.
    • Clear at least Cookies and Other Site Data as well as Cached Images and Files.
    • You can leave Passwords and Download History.
  2. Click Delete Data.

Clear Cookies from a Single Site

To clear the cookies for just one site without clearing out everything else at the same time in Chrome:

  1. Click the View Site Information icon to the left of the URL (web address).
  2. Click Cookies and site data.
  3. Click Manage on-device site data.
  4. Click the trash can icon to the right of the website name to delete the cookies from only that website.
    1. If there are multiple websites listed here, you can click the trash can icon for each site you want to delete cookies for.
  5. Click Done. 

Alternatively, you can clear the cookies from a single site through your Chrome settings:

  1. On your computer, open Chrome.
  2. At the top right, click the three vertical dots.
  3. Select Settings​​​​​​ > Privacy and security > Third-party cookies.
  4. Select See all site data and permissions.
  5. At the top right, search for the website's name.
  6. To the right of the site, select Delete.
  7. To confirm, select Delete.

Additional Information

Note: Depending on the settings you choose to clear after you clear cache and cookies:

  • Some settings on sites will be deleted.
    • For example, if you were signed in, you’ll need to sign in again, so make sure you know your login information.
  • Sites can load slowly because content needs to load again.
  • You can lose your browsing history.

For more information, please see "Why is it Necessary to Clear Cache and Cookies (or Temporary Internet Files) from Browsers" in this knowledge base.

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

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