How to Reset Safari

Safari is the most popular web browser used on Mac computers and for good reasons Even the most well-optimized browser, however, can begin to experience slowdowns or become unstable after prolonged usage as more and more temporary or junk files begin to pile up. To address the issue, users can reset the browser. Keep in mind that doing so will delete any saved auto-fill data such as usernames and passwords. Furthermore, if Safari has been enabled in the iCloud settings associated with the same AppleID, any changes to the browser will also be carried over to the other devices using the same login.

The first method for clearing the Safari browser cache is through its own Settings. Start by launching Safari. From the Menu bar, select 'Safari' and then 'Preferences.' Once inside, switch to the 'Advanced' section. Locate the 'Show Develop menu in menu bar' option and enable it. Now, that we have access to the 'Develop' menu, select it, and choose the 'Empty Caches' option to clear the browser's cache files. Wait for the clean-up process to complete.

Users on macOS version 10.14 or earlier can also manually remove all of the junk files associated with Safari. To do so, open Finder from the dock, select the 'Go' menu, followed by 'Go to Folder…' In the window, type ~/Library and click on 'Go.' Once inside the Library folder, open the 'Caches' subfolder and delete all unnecessary Safari files stored there.