Overview

What are the different refresh\reload process supported by Google Chrome and how is cache involved?

1. Refresh/Reload button
   • Classic and most commonly used, fine for 98% of uses
   • Uses local cache (if not expired) to reduce bandwidth usage and speed up user access
   • Keyboard commands:
     • Windows: Ctrl + r / F5
     • macOS: Command + r
2. Force Reload
   • Forces browser to ignore local cache and request page from host completely
     • Does not clear existing page cache
     • Good to try if having issues with data not loading on a page (ie missing images / missing folder/file in Google Drive)
   • Keyboard commands:
     • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + r / Ctrl/Shift + F5
     • macOS: Command + Shift + r
3. Delete Cache
   • Most extreme troubleshooting as it removes stored cache and cookies (some services will require you to sign in again)
     • Google Chrome directions can be found here: https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/32050?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop
   • Keyboard commands:
     • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + Delete
     • macOS: Command + Shift + Delete

Clear Single Site Cache

While we often suggest clearing cache and cookies for a browser, sometimes it's better to do it only for a specific website/domain. The steps below walk through how to do this in Chrome specifically.

1. Click the Lock Icon in the URL bar
2. 
3. Choose "Site Settings"
4. 
5. Click "Clear Data"
   Note: It may take some extended time for this page to load fully.
6. 
7. Return to page and try login again.

Clear Browser Cache

1. On your computer, open Chrome.
2. At the top right, click More. Delete browsing data.
3. Choose a time range, like Last hour or All time.
4. Select the types of information you want to remove.
5. Click Delete data. If you delete cookies while signed in to Chrome, you won't be signed out of your Google Account.