Before deleting them, make sure to export your passwords to a CSV file or import them to another browser or password manager. Removes passwords that you've saved to Chrome's built-in password manager. You can also delete cached images and files for one site only.
Certain websites may load slowly soon after since Chrome has to re-download all site-related data.
Helps fix issues caused by obsolete cached data. Note: Despite clearing cookies, websites can use alternate forms of tracking such as IP addresses or browser fingerprinting to track you. You may also end up freeing disk space (around 500 megabytes in most cases). Helps clear tracking cookies and prevents sites from recognizing you in subsequent visits. Requires you to sign in to websites all over again. Helps preserve privacy in shared device scenarios. Removes download logs from the Downloads tab (Chrome menu > Downloads). Also stops the browser from showing previously visited sites as suggestions within the Chrome Omnibox. Whenever you choose to delete a certain form of browsing data in Chrome, here's what happens: Browsing HistoryĬlears history logs from Chrome's History tab (Chrome menu > History). What Happens When You Clear Browsing Data Note: The mobile version of Chrome does not include the 'Download history' and 'Hosted app data' categories.
Hosted app data-local data saved offline by Chrome Web Store apps. Site settings-site-related permissions (such as camera, microphone, and download permissions). Passwords and other sign-in data-passwords that you save to Chrome's built-in password manager.Īutofill form data-form data, addresses, and saved credit card information. Let's take a deep dive, figure out what your Chrome browsing data consists of, and then check out what happens once you've cleared them.Ĭhrome's browsing data breakdown is as follows:īrowsing history-a record of websites that you've previously visited in the past.ĭownload history-a list of downloaded files.Ĭookies and other site data-tiny files that help sites remember login sessions and user preferences.Ĭached images and files-cached files that help Chrome load sites faster in subsequent visits. Removing data types such as cookies can also improve privacy. Often, deleting browsing data-such as cached images and files-help fix persistent issues in websites. However, there are times where you may want to clear your browsing data in Chrome. That helps provide a better browsing experience, both in terms of performance and convenience. Google Chrome saves various forms of data to local storage while you visit websites, just like other browsers.