How to - Delete, empty or clear the cache - Internet Explorer (IE)

Internet Explorer: How to Clear Your Browser Cache (Temporary Internet Files)

In the world of tech support, clearing your browser cache is the "have you tried turning it off and on again" of the internet. For Internet Explorer (IE), this process removes the Temporary Internet Files—images, scripts, and data that your browser saves to load pages faster. When these files become corrupted or out of date, simulators and web tools on Chasms.com may fail to load correctly.

Whether you are using the final IE11 or a legacy version like IE9, here is how to empty your cache in seconds.

The Universal Shortcut (Windows 7, 8, & 10)

Regardless of your version, the fastest way to the menu is the "Power User" shortcut:

1. Open Internet Explorer.

2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete on your keyboard simultaneously.

3. Proceed to the "Finalizing the Delete" section below.

Method 1: The Gear Icon (IE 9, 10, & 11)

1. Click the Gear icon (Tools) in the top-right corner of the window.

2. Hover over Safety and select Delete browsing history....

3. The "Delete Browsing History" window will appear.

Method 2: The Classic Menu (IE 7 & 8)

1. Click the Tools menu at the top of the browser.

2. Select Delete Browsing History....

Finalizing the Delete

To ensure a clean slate for your simulations, follow these checkboxes carefully:

• Uncheck "Preserve Favorites website data" (if this is checked, IE will keep the old cache for your bookmarked sites).

• Check "Temporary Internet files and website files."

• Check "Cookies and website data."

• Click Delete.

A notification bar will appear at the bottom of the screen once the process is complete. Restart Internet Explorer to ensure all files are fully cleared from memory.