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How to Fix Cannot Change Temporary Internet Files Cache Size Error in Windows 11

If you are trying to change the Temporary Internet Files cache size on Windows 11 and encounter an error, you are not alone. This is a common issue that can disrupt your browsing experience. Fortunately, it can be fixed with some straightforward steps.

Temporary Internet Files help improve browsing speed by storing cached web pages. Sometimes, Windows restricts the cache size, or system settings cause errors when you attempt to adjust it.

This article will guide you through easy, step-by-step solutions to resolve the “Cannot Change Temporary Internet Files Cache Size” error. No advanced knowledge is required.

Follow the instructions carefully to restore control over your Temporary Internet Files cache size and improve your system’s performance.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

  • Check your user account: Ensure you are logged in as an administrator. Changing cache size requires admin privileges.
  • Verify Internet Explorer or Edge settings: This cache is related to Internet Explorer and legacy components. Make sure these browsers are installed and functional.
  • Close all browsers: Before making any changes, close Internet Explorer, Edge, and other browsers to avoid conflicts.
  • Backup your settings: It’s a good idea to create a system restore point or backup your registry before changing system configurations.

Step 1: Use Internet Options to Change Cache Size

The simplest way to change the Temporary Internet Files cache size is through the Internet Options panel. This method works for most users and is the safest starting point.

  1. Press Windows + S and type Internet Options, then press Enter.
  2. In the Internet Properties window, go to the General tab.
  3. Under the Browsing history section, click on Settings.
  4. In the Temporary Internet Files and History Settings window, look for the Disk space to use slider.
  5. Adjust the slider to the desired cache size (measured in MB).
  6. Click OK to save changes, then click OK again to close Internet Properties.
  7. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Why this step is important: Using Internet Options allows you to change cache size through the official Windows interface, reducing the risk of errors caused by manual registry edits.

Step 2: Run Internet Explorer or Edge as Administrator

If you still get an error after Step 1, try running the browser as an administrator before changing settings. Sometimes, insufficient permissions cause the issue.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge.
  2. Right-click the program and select Run as administrator.
  3. Repeat the steps in Step 1 to change the cache size.

Why this helps: Running as administrator provides the necessary permissions to modify system-related settings that normal user accounts cannot.

Step 3: Modify Registry Settings Carefully

If the error persists, the cache size settings might be locked or corrupted in the Windows Registry. Editing the registry can fix this, but it requires caution.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following path:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionInternet Settings5.0Cache
  3. Look for a value named CacheLimit.
  4. If it exists, right-click on it and select Modify. Enter the desired cache size in KB (for example, 102400 for 100 MB).
  5. If CacheLimit does not exist, you can create it by right-clicking on the right pane, selecting New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and naming it CacheLimit. Then set its value as above.
  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Important: Always back up the registry before making changes. To do this, click File > Export in the Registry Editor and save a copy.

Step 4: Reset Internet Explorer Settings

If the problem still occurs, resetting Internet Explorer to its default settings can help by clearing misconfigurations.

  1. Open Internet Options as described in Step 1.
  2. Go to the Advanced tab.
  3. Click on Reset… under the Reset Internet Explorer settings section.
  4. Check Delete personal settings (optional but recommended to fix persistent errors).
  5. Click Reset and wait for the process to complete.
  6. Restart your computer.

This will restore Internet Explorer to default and often fixes cache-related errors.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

  • Use Group Policy Editor: If you are on Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can control cache settings via Group Policy. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Advanced Page.
  • Check disk permissions: Ensure the folder where Temporary Internet Files are stored has proper permissions. The default path is C:Users[Your Username]AppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsINetCache.
  • Use third-party cleaning tools: Sometimes cache corruption can cause errors. Tools like CCleaner can clear problematic files.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why can’t I change the cache size even as an administrator?

Some system policies or corrupted settings can block changes despite admin rights. Resetting Internet Explorer or editing the registry usually fixes this.

Is it safe to edit the registry to fix this error?

Yes, if done carefully. Always back up the registry before making changes to avoid system issues.

Does this issue affect only Internet Explorer?

Primarily, yes, because Temporary Internet Files are tied to Internet Explorer and legacy Edge components. Modern browsers like Chrome or Firefox use their own cache systems.

Can I increase cache size beyond the default maximum?

You can increase it up to a certain limit, but very large cache sizes may affect system performance and disk space.

Will resetting Internet Explorer delete my bookmarks?

Resetting will remove personal settings, including history and saved passwords, but not favorites/bookmarks unless you check the option to delete personal settings.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the error, consider the following final options:

  • Use System Restore: Restore your system to a point before the issue began.
  • Run Windows Update: Ensure your system is fully updated, as Microsoft sometimes fixes issues in patches.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support site for personalized help.
  • Create a new user profile: Sometimes user profiles get corrupted, and creating a new one can resolve the problem.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Cannot Change Temporary Internet Files Cache Size” error in Windows 11 is usually straightforward. Start with basic methods such as using Internet Options or running the browser as administrator. If needed, carefully modify the registry or reset Internet Explorer settings.

Understanding why this error occurs helps you address it effectively without causing further issues. Always back up your data and registry before making changes, and use advanced options only if simpler steps fail.

By following these detailed instructions, you should regain full control over the Temporary Internet Files cache size and improve your browsing experience on Windows 11.

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