What Is a RAM Cache, and How Do You Clear It on Windows?
RAM cache provides quick access to frequently used PC data and accelerates system responsiveness. But how does it work, and how do you clear it?
We’ll take a look at how RAM cache works, the pros and cons of periodically clearing it, and more.
What Is RAM Cache, and How Does It Work?
RAM cache refers to a portion of a computer’s random access memory (RAM) that’s used to store frequently accessed data. It acts as a buffer between the processor and slower storage devices, such as hard drives orsolid-state drives (SSDs).
Its main purpose is to accelerate data retrieval and improve overall system performance.
It’s worth noting that a RAM cache is a volatile memory, meaning its contents are lost when you restart your PC. In this case, data must be fetched from a storage device and stored in the RAM cache again upon reboot. But the good news is that the whole process is usually fast!
Here’s how a RAM cache works:
Is Clearing RAM Cache the Same Thing as Freeing Up RAM?
Clearing the RAM cache is different from freeing up RAM. While both actions involve the management of memory, they target different aspects.
Clearing the RAM cache refers to emptying the cache that stores frequently accessed data in your computer’s RAM. But then clearing RAM cache doesn’t directly target or release the memory occupied by active processes or data.
Meanwhile,freeing up RAMrefers to releasing the memory that’s occupied by inactive or unused processes and data. This allows the system to have more memory available to perform new tasks.
So, what if cached data occupies a lot of space on your RAM? Won’t clearing it free up your RAM?
In general, the amount of space occupied by cached data in RAM is usually small. Remember, the purpose of the RAM cache is to store frequently accessed data for quick retrieval. And the truth is that this kind of data doesn’t require a significant portion of the available memory.
The Pros and Cons of Clearing RAM Cache
Here are a few advantages of clearing the RAM cache:
Now, let’s go through a few drawbacks to be aware of when clearing the RAM cache:
Now, it’s time to discover how you can clear RAM cache on your PC.
How to Clear the RAM Cache on Windows
Here are the methods for clearing the RAM cache on your device.
1. Restart Your Device
Restart your Windows device, and all your RAM cache will vanish into thin air. But why?
When you restart your computer, the operating system shuts down all processes and services, including those that are using the RAM cache. As a result, the contents of the cache are discarded, and the RAM is effectively cleared.
2. Delete Temporary Files
Here’s another easy and effective method!
By deleting temporary files, you’re removing unnecessary files that accumulate over time. This includes data that may be stored in the RAM cache.
Here are the steps for deleting temporary files on your Windows device:
Next, press theDelete keyor right-click on the selected items and selectDeletefrom the context menu.
From there, follow these steps:
Next,empty the Recycle Binto permanently delete the temporary files. Finally, restart your device to save these changes.
3. Use a Third-Party Tool
You can also clear the RAM cache using a third-party tool like Wise Memory Optimizer.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
The best part about this tool is that you may also use it to free up the RAM. To do that, apply the previous steps and selectFree up RAMfrom the “Optimize” drop-down menu.
It’s important to download tools like Wise Optimizer from reputable sources and use them cautiously. Always ensure compatibility with your system and follow the instructions provided on the tool.
RAM Cache: A Remarkable Windows PC Feature
There’s no denying that RAM cache is quite an awesome feature. Without it, it’d be a hassle to access your frequently used data.
If you feel the need to clear the RAM cache, simply apply any of the methods we’ve covered. But also don’t forget to take a look at the pros and cons of clearing the RAM cache.
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