How to Clear NVIDIA and Direct3D Cache on Windows 10/11

Introduction

• Stuttering in apps/games may be due to corrupt NVIDIA or Direct3D cache.
• Reasons for corruption: blue screens, game crashes, unstable overclocks, etc.
• Guide based on NVIDIA R550 drivers, starting from version 551.23.
• Includes instructions for excluding NVIDIA folders in Windows Defender.

Step-by-Step Guide

Preliminary Steps

1. Ensure all applications, including games, are closed.

NVIDIA Control Panel

2. Access NVIDIA Control Panel:
   • Windows 11: Right-click desktop → Show More Options → NVIDIA Control Panel.
   • Windows 10: Right-click desktop → NVIDIA Control Panel.
3. Disable Shader Cache:
   • Go to "3D Settings" → "Manage 3D Settings".
   • Under "Global Tab", find "Shader Cache Size".
   • Select "Disable" from the dropdown.
   • Click "Apply".

Disk Cleanup

4. Perform Disk Cleanup:
   • Search for and open "Disk Cleanup".
   • Select the Windows Drive (usually C:) → OK.
   • Check "DirectX Shader Cache" only.
   • Click "Delete Files".

Manual Deletion of Cache Files

5. Delete Cache Files:
   • Open Windows Explorer/File Explorer.
   • Address bar: type %localappdata% → Enter.
   • Navigate and delete files from these folders:
     • NVIDIA → GL Cache
     • D3DSCache
     • AppData/LocalLow → NVIDIA → PerDriverVersion → DXCache
     • If files are in use, restart and try again.

Re-enable Shader Cache

6. Re-enable Shader Cache:
   • Return to NVIDIA Control Panel.
   • 3D Settings → Manage 3D Settings.
   • Set Shader Cache Size to "Driver Default" (or higher if preferred).
   • Click "Apply".

Optimizing with Windows Defender

• Add exclusions to Windows Defender to prevent scanning specific files/folders.
• Risk involved if malicious files enter these folders.
• Steps to add/remove exclusions include using PowerShell and Windows Security settings.

Additional Information

• Options for excluding specific apps/processes via Task Manager and Windows Security.
• Removal involves similar steps by locating the exclusion and choosing "Remove".

Conclusion

• Clearing cache can reduce stuttering and improve performance.
• Adding exclusions is optional and involves risk.
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