Press the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Delete (Mac) in any major browser. Select "All time" from the time range drop-down menu, check the boxes for history and cache, and click "Clear data".
Over time, your web browser accumulates thousands of records of pages you've visited, alongside gigabytes of cached images and cookies. This web browsing history can slow down your browser, cause errors on frequently visited websites, and compromise your digital privacy if you share a computer. Clearing it is a basic digital hygiene practice.
What You Will Need
- A PC or Mac
- Any modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Use the Shortcut: Open your browser and simultaneously press
Ctrl + Shift + Deleteon your keyboard. This universal shortcut bypasses all settings menus and opens the cleanup window directly. - Select the Time Range: At the top of the window, change the time range from "Last hour" to "All time" (or "Everything") to ensure a complete wipe.
- Choose What to Delete: Check the boxes for "Browsing history" and "Cached images and files". Leave passwords and autofill data unchecked unless you specifically want to delete them.
- Execute: Click the blue "Clear data" (or "Clear now") button. Close and restart your browser for the changes to take full effect.
If you only want to delete a single specific website from your history, press Ctrl + H to open the history list, search for the specific site, and delete only those entries without wiping everything else.
Alternative Methods
- Incognito Mode: If you don't want to constantly delete your history, use Incognito/Private mode (
Ctrl + Shift + N). The browser will automatically destroy all history and cookies the moment you close the window. - Automated Cleaning: In Firefox and Edge settings, you can toggle a feature called "Clear history when Firefox closes," which fully automates your privacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
No. Browsing history, cache, and cookies are temporary data. Your saved bookmarks, favorites, and extensions are completely separate and will not be affected by this process.
If clearing the history and cache didn't speed up your browser, the slowdown is likely caused by having too many heavy extensions installed or keeping too many tabs open, which drains your computer's RAM.