What is cache on my Mac?
Cache is temporary data your Mac stores to speed up browsing and app performance. Safari might save images and scripts so pages load fast, while Chrome can keep cached copies of site assets, and your favorite apps store logs and workspace files.
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Over time, cache data can become outdated or corrupted, slowing down your Mac. Clearing cache will remove these temporary files — not your bookmarks, messages, photos, documents, or passwords — and can give you a major performance boost.
Is cache the same as cookies?
No. They’re different.
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Cache data is locally saved files (images, scripts, and thumbnails) that help webpages and apps load faster, while cookies store small bits of personal data, like your preferences and shopping carts. Clearing cache removes temporary files stored on your Mac, but clearing cookies will log you out of sites, services, and apps. Your passwords and bookmarks will still be available to use.
How often should I clear the cache on my Mac?
Here’s my routine, which I recommend:
- Browser cache: once a month, or when pages act slow or glitchy.
- App caches: every few months, especially for video or photo editors or large apps.
- System restart: every day, ideally, or every week at the very least.
- When storage is low: use System Settings > General > Storage to remove unwanted apps and reduce clutter.
Can I clear cache in other browsers or apps on Mac?
Yes. For example, in Firefox, you can go to Settings > Privacy and Security and click Clear Data under Cookies and Site Data. In Microsoft Edge, open the three-dot menu, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services, and select Choose what to clear under Clear browsing data. Other apps may vary, so look for a “clear cache” setting, or delete cache files manually in ~/Library/Caches.
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But I’d avoid the manual route if you’re inexperienced. You definitely shouldn’t touch anything if you’re unsure.
Should I use cleaner apps to clear cache on my Mac?
Honestly? No. You can use the steps above to clear your cache and avoid installing janky third-party software that might accidentally delete important files. If you do want to use a cleaner app, just make sure it’s reputable and transparent about what it’s deleting.
How to check your Mac’s storage
You can see app sizes, system data, and recommendations right in Settings:
- Go to System Settings.
- Click General.
- Select Storage.
- Wait for the breakdown to appear.
- Select Applications to view your installed apps by size.
What is DNS cache on my Mac and how do I clear it?
A DNS cache on your Mac is a small database of website lookups your computer saves locally so that pages will load faster the next time you visit them. However, things happen. For example, if a site changes servers, your network settings become corrupted, or something tries to redirect you incorrectly, old DNS entries can cause pages to load slowly, load the wrong content, or not load at all.
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In those instances, clearing your DNS cache is a quick fix to all these problems. And with MacOS 26, it’s easy to do.
Just open the Terminal app, and type:
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache;sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
Now press Enter.
The DNS cache will be wiped instantly, forcing your system to fetch new, accurate information the next time you browse.
