gptAI
Home

Clear SharePoint Cache: Easy Steps For A Fresh Start

9 min read 11-14- 2024
Clear SharePoint Cache: Easy Steps For A Fresh Start

Table of Contents :

When using SharePoint, users may occasionally encounter issues related to performance or outdated content. One of the effective ways to address these problems is by clearing the SharePoint cache. This process helps to refresh the content you see and can resolve various glitches. In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy steps to clear your SharePoint cache for a fresh start. 🚀

Understanding SharePoint Cache

What is SharePoint Cache? 🗂️

SharePoint cache refers to temporary files and data stored on your computer or within the SharePoint environment itself. This caching mechanism is designed to improve performance by reducing load times for frequently accessed files and pages. However, as the cache fills up with outdated or corrupted data, it can lead to issues such as slow performance, display errors, or even inability to load pages properly.

Why Clear Cache? 🔍

Clearing the SharePoint cache can help resolve several common issues, including:

  • Performance Problems: Slow loading times or unresponsive pages.
  • Content Inconsistencies: Outdated files or versions that are not syncing correctly.
  • Error Messages: Encountering errors when accessing documents or lists.
  • Access Issues: Trouble logging in or experiencing repeated login prompts.

Steps to Clear SharePoint Cache

Step 1: Clear Browser Cache 🖥️

Before diving into SharePoint-specific cache clearing, it's wise to start with your browser's cache, as it often influences how SharePoint loads.

For Google Chrome:

  1. Open Chrome.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
  3. Go to More Tools > Clear Browsing Data.
  4. Select a time range (e.g., "Last hour", "Last 24 hours", or "All time").
  5. Make sure to check Cached images and files.
  6. Click Clear data.

For Mozilla Firefox:

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Click on the three lines in the top-right corner.
  3. Select Options > Privacy & Security.
  4. Scroll down to the Cookies and Site Data section.
  5. Click Clear Data.
  6. Ensure Cached Web Content is checked and click Clear.

For Microsoft Edge:

  1. Open Edge.
  2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services.
  4. Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.
  5. Select a time range and check Cached images and files.
  6. Click Clear now.

Step 2: Clear SharePoint Cache Manually 🔧

Now that the browser cache is cleared, proceed to clear the SharePoint cache itself.

For SharePoint Online:

  1. Open SharePoint Online: Go to your SharePoint site.
  2. Access Site Settings: Click on the gear icon in the top right corner and select Site settings.
  3. Clear the Cache:
    • Look for the Site Collection Administration section.
    • Click on Content Types and then Manage Site Collection Content Types.
    • Here you can choose to remove any outdated content types.
  4. Refresh the page to see the changes.

For SharePoint On-Premises:

  1. Close All Browser Windows: Make sure all instances of browsers accessing SharePoint are closed.
  2. Open the Run Dialog: Press Windows + R.
  3. Navigate to the Cache Folder:
    • Type in the following path:
      • %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\SharePoint\
  4. Delete Cache Files: You’ll find various cache files here. Select all the files in this folder and delete them.

Step 3: Clear Office Cache 🗄️

If you're using SharePoint in conjunction with Microsoft Office, clearing the Office cache can also help:

  1. Close All Office Applications.
  2. Open the Run Dialog: Press Windows + R.
  3. Type in the following command:
    • %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Office\16.0\OfficeFileCache
    • Adjust the version number (16.0) based on your Office version if necessary.
  4. Delete All Files: Select all the files and delete them.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer 🔄

After clearing all caches, restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect properly. This also helps refresh any residual processes that may still be running.

Step 5: Verify Changes ✅

  1. Reopen Your Browser and SharePoint.
  2. Check for Performance Improvements: Navigate through your SharePoint site to see if there’s an improvement in speed and functionality.
  3. Review Document Access: Make sure you can access documents without any error messages.

Additional Tips for Maintaining a Healthy SharePoint Environment

Regular Maintenance 🧹

Just like any other platform, SharePoint requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly:

  • Regularly Clear Cache: Make it a habit to clear your cache regularly, especially if you notice issues.
  • Update Software: Ensure both your browser and any relevant Office applications are updated to the latest versions.
  • Monitor Performance: Regularly check the performance of SharePoint sites and document libraries.

Training and Awareness 📚

Educate users about cache-related issues and the importance of clearing cache to maintain optimal performance. Consider providing resources or training sessions for teams to address common queries.

Utilize Diagnostic Tools 🔍

Leverage SharePoint diagnostic tools to identify and troubleshoot issues related to cache and performance. Tools like SharePoint Health Analyzer can provide insights into areas that require attention.

Summary

Clearing the SharePoint cache is a straightforward yet essential step to ensuring optimal performance and resolving common issues. By following the steps outlined above, users can refresh their SharePoint environment, leading to better functionality and user experience.

Remember, while clearing the cache can resolve many problems, consistent maintenance and user education are key to preventing issues from arising in the first place. By staying proactive, you can keep your SharePoint environment running smoothly and effectively! 🌟

Featured Posts