How to Add New Hardware Devices on Windows 10 and 11

While browsing through the latest tech guides, it turns out that giving your Windows 11 PC a little housekeeping can work wonders. If your system is lagging or feels slower than usual, the culprit might be overflowing cache and temporary files. Let’s dive into how to clear these files and why doing so may just be the secret sauce to a smoother, faster digital experience.
Why Cache Cleanup Matters

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Every day, your computer gathers a host of cache files—from temporary system data and downloaded files to location histories and more. Over time, these files can pile up, becoming outdated or even corrupted. The result? Slower boot times, sluggish performance, and the kind of system clutter that reminds you of an overstuffed closet. By clearing these caches and temporary files, not only do you free up valuable disk space, but you also help your PC run more efficiently.

Windows 11’s Built-In Cleanup Tools​

Windows 11 comes armed with a few handy utilities designed to locate and delete unnecessary files—no extra software required. Here are the key tools and how to use them:

1. Storage Cleanup Recommendations​

Windows 11’s Storage settings include a "Cleanup recommendations" section that helps identify large, unused, and temporary files:

• Accessing the Tool:
• Click the Start button, then head over to Settings.
• Navigate to System > Storage.
• Scroll down until you see Cleanup recommendations.

Here, the system scans your device and identifies items like stale files in your Downloads folder, the Recycle Bin, or data-heavy items such as video clips and oversized images. Before clicking delete, take a moment to review these files—especially those in your Downloads folder where important documents might be lurking.

2. Using the Disk Cleanup Utility​

A tried-and-true method available on almost all versions of Windows:

• How to Run Disk Cleanup:
• Open the Start menu and type “Disk Cleanup” in the search bar.
• Select the utility, which will scan for temporary internet files, setup logs, and other cache files.
• Next Steps:
• Check the boxes next to the file types you’re comfortable deleting.
• Click OK to remove them and reclaim those precious gigabytes.

3. Clearing Your PC’s Location Cache​

Your Windows 11 PC also retains location history data to help with location-based services. Clearing this location cache not only frees up additional space but also enhances privacy:

• Steps to Clear Location History:
• Open Settings from the Start menu.
• Click on Privacy and Security.
• Scroll down and locate the Location history section, then click Clear.

4. Flushing the DNS Cache​

Slow internet speeds might sometimes be a result of outdated DNS cache entries. Refreshing this cache can help restore speedy web browsing:

• The Quick DNS Reset:
• Press the Windows Key + R to bring up the Run command.
• Type in ipconfig/flushdns and hit Enter.

This simple command purges the DNS cache, ensuring that your PC retrieves fresh IP addresses when connecting to websites—possibly boosting your browsing speed in the process.
Enhancing Long-Term Performance

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Beyond these utilities, regular maintenance is key. Here are a few additional tips:

• Keep Your System Updated:

Nothing spells performance issues like an out-of-date OS. Microsoft frequently rolls out updates that not only patch security vulnerabilities but also optimize system performance.

• Practice Good File Management:

Regularly review and offload unnecessary files. Think of it as spring cleaning—done once in a while, it keeps your system lean and fast.

• Uninstall Unused Apps:

Windows 11 will occasionally suggest apps you've rarely or never used. Removing these can help declutter your system and free up both storage and processing power.
A Few Parting Thoughts

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Even though these cache-clearing methods might seem like minor tweaks, collectively, they can lead to noticeable improvements in performance. Imagine your PC as a bustling workshop—over time, even the best workshop can become cluttered with old tools and scrap materials. Clearing out the unnecessary items not only creates more space for new projects but also allows the most important functions to work more efficiently.
So, whether you're preparing for the next big Windows 11 update or simply striving to keep your system in top shape, remember that a little routine cleanup goes a long way. Have you tried these methods before? What improvements did you notice? Feel free to share your experiences and tips on our forum—let’s optimize our systems together!
Happy cleaning, and enjoy a faster, more responsive Windows 11 PC!

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Source: ZDNet Optimize Windows 11: Clear Cache and Boost Performance