If you have run across the problem on your Windows 11 PC of graphics stuttering, lagging gameplay, or slow app performance, the DirectX Shader Cache is likely to be the one. This cache can accumulate outdated data or even corrupt data over time, which is why we are facing the problems at the moment. Luckily, it is quite easy to resolve the problem as the DirectX Shader Cache is cleared. We will be guiding you through two of the most efficient methods to clear the DirectX Shader Cache on Windows 11.
What is DirectX Shader Cache?
The DirectX Shader Cache is a feature that is integrated into Windows 11, which contains data for the shader programs that are to be used by applications and games. Shaders are small programs that govern graphics rendering on your screen. The main advantage of this is that by doing this, Windows reduces load times and improves graphics performance during games or other tasks requiring high graphical output.
By internal resources, such a cache may be bloated, generating errors and causing device performance to be poor. The mechanism of clearing the cache, which gives your system a chance to re-generate fresh shader data and thus resolves the issues, is the solution.
Why Clear the DirectX Shader Cache?
One can remove the DirectX Shader Cache to the following effect:
- Enhancing the gaming experience: No more stuttering, lag, or frame drops.
- Recover storage space: Get rid of the cached files you don’t need.
- Solve glitches with graphics: Regain your system’s original performance by deleting the corrupt shader data.
How to Clear DirectX Shader Cache on Windows 11
Method 1: Clear DirectX Shader Cache Using Windows Settings
The clear the cache process planned here is a simple procedure carried out by the official Windows Settings app. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open Settings:
- Press Windows + I to switch on the gadget
- Another way is to go to the start menu, type in Settings, and click the Open button.
- Go to System > Storage:
- In the newly opened app, place the wire on System, which is an option on the left.
- Now, click on the Storage choice from the list of various options.
- Click on Temporary Files
- In the section of the temporary files provided, click the button that says the word temporary files.
- Select DirectX Shader Cache:
- After scrolling down or moving around left and right, find the button on DirectX Shader Cache and click it to make it turn blue.
- Don’t forget to also select anything else that you want to clear.
- Remove Files:
- Click the top link named Remove files.
- Click the “Continue” button in the pop-up window to approve the action if you are asked for a confirmation after clicking the button.
- Restart Your PC:
- After shutting down the computer, turn it back on to get the modifications.
Method 2: Clear DirectX Shader Cache Using Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is the other utility provided by Windows only for actions like this, for example, deleting DirectX Shader Cache.
- Open disk cleanup:
- Do this by pressing the key Windows and then entering the word Disk Cleanup and pressing Enter.
- Select the System Drive:
- If the Drive Selection window is not already open, click on it to expand it, then click on your system drive (usually C:).
- Click OK.
- Check DirectX Shader Cache:
- Scroll down to see DirectX Shader Cache and enable the box next to it in the Disk Cleanup window.
- Also, ditch other files that you don’t need anymore to create extra space.
- Delete Files:
- Press OK and, if asked to, click “Delete Files” in the new window.
- Restart Your PC:
- Following the procedure, restart your PC in order to ensure the modifications are applied correctly.
Extra Tricks to Enhance Performance
- Update Graphics Drivers: Be sure to update the GPU drivers and avoid any trouble with game compatibility.
- Disable Background Apps: Lighten the load from your system by closing the unnecessary background applications.
- Optimize Game Settings: Change game visuals settings inside the game to match your hardware.
Conclusion
Erasing the DirectX Shader Cache in Windows 11 is a fast and efficient mode of correcting the possible problems that are closely linked with graphics and gaming. Following the proceeding guide, you will access additional storage capacity as well as eliminate graphical distortions and hesitation to finally play your games. It is always an option if nothing else works to update drivers or to check for system updates.
Our guide has hopefully made you clear the DirectX Shader Cache, not to mention that it has not troubled your PC anymore. You can leave them in the comments if you would like to ask anything or share some additional tips with us!