How to Clear Cache and Cookies

Introduction - What is our "cache" and why should you clear it?

Any sophisticated website you visit is actually a composition of dozens, hundreds or even thousands of files. Even websites supremely optimized for speed are likely loading tons of files at once to display content in your browser! Browsers try to do their part to speed up the loading process. The first time you visit a site, your browser will “save” pieces of the site. Because your browser can display the files stored in its cache much faster than it can pull fresh files from a server, the next time you visit that site, the use of cached files will help cut down page load time.

However...

Often, web developers have to make updates to the files that comprise your site in order to push a change or new feature live. If we change a file that your browser has cached, it’s going to keep serving the old, cached version of the file and you won’t see our most recent change. That’s why we ask you to clear your cache.

Clearing your cache and cookies can be useful for several reasons:

• Fixing Issues: If a website isn't loading correctly or is behaving strangely, clearing your cache and cookies can often resolve these issues. Sometimes outdated or corrupted files can cause problems.
• Privacy: Cookies store information about your browsing habits and login details. Clearing them can help protect your privacy by removing this data.
• Performance: Over time, your cache can get cluttered with old files. Clearing it can free up space and potentially improve your browser’s performance.
• Updating Content: If a website has updated its content or design, clearing your cache can ensure that you’re viewing the most current version rather than an old, cached version.
• Login Problems: If you're having trouble logging into a site, clearing cookies can help resolve issues related to stored login credentials or session data.

How to Clear Your Cache

The process of clearing the cache differs from browser to browser. 

Chrome:

1. After opening the Chrome browser, select the ellipsis in the top right corner, then click on "Settings"
2. In the lefthand menu, select "Privacy and security"
3. Then select "Delete browsing data"
4. A pop-up will appear. Select "Advanced". In the time range dropdown, select "All time" then "Delete data" at the bottom of the pop-up

FireFox:

Edge:

1. After opening the Edge browser, select the ellipsis in the top right corner 
2. In the lefthand menu, select "Privacy, search, and services"
3. Then select "Clear browsing data now" under "Delete browsing data"
4. In the "Time range" dropdown, select "All time", then the blue "Clear now" button

Internet Explorer: