What is Cache and How Do I Clear Browser Cache When Updating My WordPress Site

CourseVector receives a lot of support requests stating that the changes that were made to a WordPress page or post are not showing up. In virtually all cases, the changes are indeed made, but the client’s browser cache is preventing viewing the changes.

What is cache?


Wikipedia defines web cache as a technology for the temporary storage (caching) of web documents (WordPress Pages or Posts) with the aim of improving the speed of the page display thereby reducing visitor lag. Website and browser cache is a very necessary part of any good website/webdesign. When a web page is requested, the client browser will check to see if that page has been visited in the recent past. If it has, the browser will display the page that is stored on the client computer instead of the page actually being displayed on the website. Therefore, if changes are being made to a page and the page is being viewed to confirm those changes, it is very likely the changes will not be displayed with the current changes. Instead the saved copy of the site will be offered from the website’s or client’s browser cache.

How to clear the cache


Websites can be cached on both the server and the browser. When you update your WordPress website, you should clear the website’s cache. If you cannot see changes even after the server cache is cleared, try clearing your browser cache. Links to instructions on both are below.

Clearing Browser Cache

Clearing Website Cache

Before opening a ticket, always try clearing your cache. Of course if you still have an issue, contact us for help.

Please note that caching your website is not necessary. If you’d prefer, we can disable the caching plugin. The site might slow down a bit, but it will not be unreasonable. For SEO, however, we strong recommend using the caching plugin.

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