Cookies are small files stored by your browser to save website preferences and login information. When cookies get deleted after restarting Windows 11, it can disrupt your browsing experience. This issue is common but usually easy to fix with a few simple steps.
Understanding why cookies are deleted helps prevent losing data like saved passwords or site preferences. Most of the time, the problem is related to browser settings or system configurations. By following straightforward troubleshooting steps, you can make sure cookies stay intact after rebooting your PC.
This guide walks you through the most common causes and fixes for cookies disappearing after restart on Windows 11. Each step is explained in detail so even beginners can follow along. Let’s get started and keep your cookies safe!
Before diving into complex solutions, it’s always best to try the simplest fixes first. This saves time and often resolves the problem quickly.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
- Make sure your browser is up to date. Outdated browsers can behave unpredictably with cookies.
- Check if your system date and time are set correctly. Incorrect time settings can cause cookie issues.
- Confirm that you are not using any third-party cleanup tools that automatically delete cookies on reboot.
- Ensure Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. Updates often fix bugs related to system and browser behavior.
Step 1: Verify Browser Cookie Settings
Browsers have options that control how cookies are handled. Sometimes, these settings are adjusted to clear cookies when the browser closes, which might look like cookies disappearing after restart.
For Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge and click the three-dot menu at the top right.
- Select Settings and then go to Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll down to Clear browsing data and click Choose what to clear every time you close the browser.
- Make sure the toggle for Cookies and other site data is turned off.
For Google Chrome
- Click the three-dot menu in Chrome and select Settings.
- Go to Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data.
- Ensure Clear cookies and site data when you close all windows is turned off.
These settings are crucial because if enabled, they erase cookies every time you exit your browser—even before restarting Windows.
Step 2: Disable Third-Party Cleanup or Privacy Tools
Some users install system cleaners or privacy apps that delete cookies automatically to free disk space or protect privacy. While useful in some cases, these tools can interfere with cookie storage.
- Check if you have apps like CCleaner, BleachBit, or any privacy-focused software installed.
- Open those tools and review their settings to see if they are set to clear cookies on system restart.
- If yes, disable the cookie cleaning option or exclude your browser’s cookie folders.
Disabling or adjusting these settings will prevent automatic deletion and keep cookies intact.
Step 3: Adjust Windows 11 Storage Sense Settings
Windows 11 includes a feature called Storage Sense that cleans temporary files automatically. Sometimes, it may delete cookies if configured to remove temporary internet files.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Storage.
- Click on Storage Sense or Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
- Look under Temporary Files and uncheck options related to deleting browser cache or cookies.
- Save changes and close Settings.
By ensuring Storage Sense does not target cookies, you protect your saved browser data during system cleanup.
Step 4: Check Browser Extensions or Add-ons
Some browser extensions claim to improve privacy by clearing cookies automatically. These can interfere with cookie retention.
- Open your browser and go to the extensions or add-ons page.
- Disable any privacy-related extensions temporarily.
- Restart the browser and check if cookies still get deleted after restarting Windows.
- If disabling an extension fixes the issue, consider removing or reconfiguring it.
Step 5: Reset Browser to Default Settings
If previous steps do not resolve the issue, resetting your browser can help. This returns settings to default and removes unwanted configurations.
Resetting Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge settings.
- Go to Reset settings in the left panel.
- Click Restore settings to their default values.
- Confirm by clicking Reset.
Resetting Google Chrome
- Go to Chrome settings.
- Scroll down and click Advanced to expand.
- Under Reset and clean up, select Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Click Reset settings to confirm.
Resetting removes problematic settings that could be causing cookie deletion issues.
Alternative Method: Create a New User Profile
If the problem persists after resetting, your user profile might be corrupted. Creating a new Windows user profile can help isolate the issue.
- Open Settings with Windows + I.
- Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click Add account under Other users.
- Follow prompts to create a local user account.
- Log into the new account and check if cookies remain after restarting.
If cookies are saved correctly in the new profile, your old profile may need repair or replacement.
FAQs
Why do cookies get deleted after restarting Windows 11?
This usually happens because of browser settings that clear cookies on exit, system cleanup tools, or Windows Storage Sense removing temporary files.
Can antivirus software delete cookies?
Some antivirus or privacy software can clear cookies as part of their protection routines. Check your antivirus settings if you suspect this.
Are cookies safe to keep on my PC?
Cookies are generally safe and help improve browsing experience by remembering preferences. However, some cookies track user behavior, so clearing them occasionally is good for privacy.
Will resetting my browser delete saved passwords?
Yes, resetting usually deletes saved passwords, bookmarks, and other personal data. Make sure to back up important data before resetting.
How often should I clear cookies?
Clearing cookies depends on your privacy needs. For most users, clearing cookies every few weeks or months is sufficient.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and cookies still get deleted after restarting Windows 11, consider the following final options:
- Run the Windows System File Checker tool by opening Command Prompt as administrator and typing
sfc /scannow. This repairs corrupted system files. - Contact Microsoft Support or your browser’s official support channels for advanced assistance.
- Consider reinstalling your browser completely to fix deep configuration issues.
Links to official support:
Conclusion
Cookies getting deleted after restarting Windows 11 can be frustrating, but it’s often caused by simple settings or cleanup tools. By carefully checking your browser’s cookie settings, disabling third-party cleaners, adjusting Storage Sense, and resetting your browser, most users can solve this issue easily. If problems persist, creating a new user profile or repairing system files can help. Remember to keep your browser and Windows updated for the best performance and stability.
Following these detailed steps ensures your cookies stay safe, improving your browsing experience without losing important data after every restart.