Clearing the cache in Outlook on Windows 10 can help solve performance issues and resolve errors. Here’s a quick guide: First, close Outlook. Next, navigate to the File Explorer and locate the Outlook cache folder. Delete the files within the cache folder. Finally, restart Outlook to experience improved performance. Simple, right?
How to Clear Outlook Cache in Windows 10
Clearing the Outlook cache is like giving your email a fresh start. By removing temporary files, you can fix issues and improve performance. Follow these steps to clear the cache.
Step 1: Close Outlook
First, close the Outlook application.
Make sure no Outlook windows are open. This step ensures that none of the cache files are in use when you try to delete them.
Step 2: Open File Explorer
Next, open File Explorer on your computer.
You can do this by clicking on the folder icon in your taskbar or pressing the Win+E keys on your keyboard. File Explorer is where you’ll find all your computer’s files and folders.
Step 3: Navigate to the Outlook Cache Folder
In File Explorer, go to the address bar and enter: %localappdata%MicrosoftOutlook
Press Enter. This will take you directly to the folder where Outlook stores its cache files. The path is a shortcut to the hidden folders in your system.
Step 4: Delete Cache Files
Select all the files in the Outlook cache folder and delete them.
You can do this quickly by pressing Ctrl+A to select all files, then pressing the Delete key. This will remove the temporary files that Outlook has stored, resolving many common issues.
Step 5: Restart Outlook
Finally, open Outlook again.
When you restart Outlook, it will create new cache files. This can help to resolve performance problems and other issues caused by corrupted cache files.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you should notice that Outlook runs more smoothly. Deleting the cache helps to clear out any corrupted or outdated files that might have been causing issues.
Tips for Clearing Outlook Cache in Windows 10
- Make sure to back up your important data before deleting any files.
- Clearing the cache won’t delete your emails, just temporary files.
- Do this process regularly if you notice Outlook slowing down.
- If you face issues finding the folder, ensure hidden files and folders are visible.
- Restarting your computer after clearing the cache can help solidify changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I clear my Outlook cache?
Clearing the cache can resolve performance issues and fix errors caused by corrupted temporary files.
Will clearing the cache delete my emails?
No, it only deletes temporary files. Your emails and other important data will remain intact.
How often should I clear the Outlook cache?
It depends on your usage. If you notice slow performance or frequent errors, it might be time to clear the cache.
What if I can’t find the cache folder?
Ensure that hidden files and folders are visible in File Explorer settings. You can do this by going to View > Options > Change Folder and Search Options > View and selecting "Show hidden files, folders, and drives."
Is it safe to delete all the files in the cache folder?
Yes, deleting these files is safe. Outlook will recreate the necessary cache files the next time you start the application.
Summary
- Close Outlook.
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to: %localappdata%MicrosoftOutlook.
- Delete cache files.
- Restart Outlook.
Conclusion
Clearing the cache in Outlook on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can greatly improve the performance of your email application. By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve common issues and ensure that your Outlook runs smoothly. Remember, this process only removes temporary files, so your emails and important data will remain untouched.
Regularly clearing your cache can prevent problems before they start. If you notice Outlook acting sluggish or encountering frequent errors, don’t hesitate to follow these steps. For those interested in further reading, exploring more about managing and optimizing Outlook can be very beneficial.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might be experiencing similar issues. Taking a few minutes to clear your Outlook cache can save you time and frustration in the long run.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.