How to clear cookies and cache mac

A browser cache stores copies of web pages you visit which allows the pages to load faster. Clearing the cache helps keep pages updated with the correct information.

Safari

To learn more about clearing your cache in Safari, visit Apple Support.

  1. In the Safari menu bar, click the Safari option.
  2. Click the Clear History link.
  3. In the Clear drop-down menu, select the time range where you want to clear browsing data.
  4. Click the Clear History button.

Chrome

To learn more about clearing your cache in Chrome, visit Google Support.

  1. On the browser toolbar, click the Chrome menu icon.
  2. Select the Clear browsing data link.
  3. In the data drop-down menu, select the time range where you want to clear browsing data.
  4. Select the Cookies and other site and plug-in data and Cached images and files checkboxes.
  5. Click the Clear Browsing Data button.

Firefox

To learn more about clearing your cache in Firefox, visit Firefox Support.

  1. In the Firefox menu bar, click the Firefox option.
  2. Select the Preferences link.
  3. Click the Privacy tab.
  4. Under the History heading, click the clear your recent history link.
  5. Select the Cache checkbox.
  6. Click the Clear Now button.

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How to clear cookies on your Mac in Safari and other web browsers

Clear or block cookies from your Mac's Safari browser all at once, or manage which sites do what with your data. Kif Leswing

  • To clear cookies on a Mac, you need to delete cookies in all web browsers you use.
  • You can clear all cookies, or choose to remove specific cookies.
  • When you delete cookies, you erase information saved in your browser, including passwords and other settings.

HTTP cookies, also known as web cookies or browser cookies, serve an important role on the internet.

Cookies remember website configurations, login details, search history, products added to your shopping cart, and other browsing data — all with the practical purpose of storing your preferences so you can have a personalized browsing experience.

But cookies can also be used to track and identify you. They're the reason why some online ads seem eerily specific to you and only you, based on your past web history. These cookies are known as third-party cookies.

When you clear cookies on a Mac, you erase all that saved information from your browser. There are a few reasons why you should regularly clear your cookies:

  • They can slow your browser down: Deleting your cookies frees up space on your device, so it can improve its overall performance, including browsing speed.
  • They store your personal information: If privacy is a concern, you should regularly clear your cookies. This is especially important if you share your device with others. 
  • They are susceptible to hackers: The fact that cookies store personal information makes them a prime target for hackers to steal your data. 

The good news is that clearing cookies is a straightforward process in Safari on a Mac, and other third-party browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Below, we'll show you how to clear cookies on all of them.

What happens when you clear cookies?

After you clear cookies, sites will take longer to load the next time you visit them, because content needs to load again. For some sites, you may also need to sign in again or re-enter your login information. If you were about to purchase an item, your shopping cart may be empty. Likewise, the ads you see online may no longer be catered to your interests.

Steven John

Freelance Writer

Steven John is a freelance writer living near New York City by way of 12 years in Los Angeles, four in Boston, and the first 18 near DC. When not writing or spending time with his wife and kids, he can occasionally be found climbing mountains. His writing is spread across the web, and his books can be found at www.stevenjohnbooks.com.

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Is it good to clear cookies on a Mac?

It's important to clear cookies on your Mac for several reasons, including privacy and ease of access. Cookies save and store data you've supplied on a web browser, so clearing them occasionally can help keep your internet experience as easy to use, accessible and relevant as possible.

How do I clear all cached files on Mac?

Open Finder and select Go > Go to Folder..
Type in ~/Library/Caches and hit Enter..
Back up the folders if you are worried about something going wrong..
Keep the folders, but go into each one and delete the files inside..