Microsoft Edge improves performance with automatic disk cache compression
Microsoft Edge can now automatically compress disk caches to optimize performance.
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What you need to know
Microsoft Edge’s latest feature will help optimize the browser’s performance without eating up system resources. Starting with Edge 102, the browser will automatically compress disk caches to improve performance and reduce disk footprint. Using too much disk space can worsen the browsing experience as well as bog down an entire system.
“When a browser uses too many resources, it not only impacts the browsing experience but can also slow down the entire system,” explained Microsoft’s Edge team in ablog post. “However, when it comes to performance optimizations, we often need to balance optimizing for the entire system, since optimizing for one resource can often come at a cost increasing the use of another resource.”
Browsers store content from the web by using disk caches. This allows Edge and other apps to access information quickly. While browsers, including Edge, already moderate how much disk space they take up, compressing content allows for further optimization.
Microsoft noted that contents within caches are usually highly compressible. “Since the contents in these cache(s) are often highly compressible, compression results in increasing the likelihood that the requested resource can be fetched from the disk.”
Edge will automatically compress disk caches on eligible systems. The browser has to check if a system is eligible to ensure that compression won’t result in poor performance.
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is the built-in browser on Windows 11 and Windows 10. It’s powered by Chromium, which ensures its compatibility with the vast majority of the web. Starting with Edge 102, the browser will automatically compress disk caches to optimize performance.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
