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How to delete vscode cache

Karen Carpenter
Karen CarpenterOriginal
2025-03-06 11:17:15971browse

How to delete vscode cache?

There are several ways to delete the VS Code cache, depending on your operating system and how thorough you want to be. Here are the most common methods:

Method 1: Clearing the Cache Folder (Recommended)

This method targets the most common cache locations and is generally sufficient. The location of the cache folder varies depending on your operating system:

  • Windows: %APPDATA%CodeCache (You can paste this directly into the File Explorer address bar).
  • macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Code/Cache (You'll need to show hidden files in Finder: Go to Finder > Go > Go to Folder and paste this path).
  • Linux: ~/.vscode-server/data/Cache (This applies to the remote development feature. The location for local installations might vary slightly depending on your distribution and installation method. Check your VS Code installation directory for a 'Cache' folder).

Once you've located the folder, simply delete its contents. You can either delete individual files or delete the entire Cache folder. VS Code will recreate the cache the next time you launch it.

Method 2: Using the "Developer Tools" (For more advanced users)

VS Code has built-in developer tools that allow you to clear various caches and storage. This is less direct than manually deleting the cache folder but can be useful for identifying and addressing specific caching issues. To access these tools:

  1. Open VS Code.
  2. Press Ctrl Shift I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd Option I (macOS) to open the Developer Tools.
  3. Navigate to the "Application" tab.
  4. Under "Storage," you'll find various cache-related entries. You can selectively clear these or clear all storage. Be cautious when using this method, as clearing all storage might delete more than just the cache.

Method 3: Reinstalling VS Code (Least Recommended)

This is a drastic measure and should only be used as a last resort if other methods fail. Reinstalling VS Code will completely remove all its data, including settings, extensions, and the cache. Remember to back up any important settings or extensions before reinstalling.

What are the benefits of clearing my VS Code cache?

Clearing your VS Code cache can offer several benefits, primarily focused on improving performance and resolving issues:

  • Improved Performance: A bloated cache can slow down VS Code's startup time, responsiveness, and overall performance. Clearing the cache frees up disk space and can significantly speed up the application.
  • Resolution of Bugs and Glitches: Corrupted cache files can sometimes lead to unexpected bugs, glitches, or errors within VS Code. Clearing the cache can help resolve these issues.
  • Fixing Extension Problems: Problems with extensions can sometimes be linked to cached data. Clearing the cache can resolve conflicts or issues caused by malfunctioning extensions.
  • Reduced Disk Space Usage: The cache can accumulate a considerable amount of data over time, especially if you use many extensions or work on large projects. Clearing it frees up disk space.

How do I fix slow performance issues in VS Code by clearing the cache?

Slow performance in VS Code can stem from various sources, but a cluttered cache is a common culprit. Following these steps can help improve performance:

  1. Clear the Cache: Use one of the methods described in the first section to clear the VS Code cache.
  2. Restart VS Code: After clearing the cache, restart VS Code to ensure the changes take effect.
  3. Monitor Performance: Observe VS Code's performance after restarting. If the slowdowns persist, consider other potential causes, such as:

    • Resource-Intensive Extensions: Disable or uninstall extensions that you don't regularly use.
    • Large Project Files: Consider optimizing your project files or using techniques like LSP (Language Server Protocol) for improved performance with large codebases.
    • Insufficient System Resources: Ensure your computer has enough RAM and processing power to run VS Code smoothly.
    • Outdated VS Code Version: Update VS Code to the latest version, as updates often include performance improvements.

Will deleting my VS Code cache affect my settings or extensions?

No, deleting the VS Code cache will not affect your settings or extensions. Your settings are stored separately from the cache, usually in the settings.json file, and your extensions are installed in a dedicated directory. The cache only stores temporary files used by VS Code to improve performance, so deleting it will not result in data loss concerning your configurations or add-ons. However, you might experience a slightly slower startup time initially as VS Code rebuilds its cache.

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