Browser cache location reverts from RAM disk back to HDD

Started by Vincent

The Cache Relocator setting for my Google Chrome is prone to reverting to HDD rather than staying on the RAM disk after a reboot. How can I make this setting stay semi-permanent?

I use Primo RAM disk with image enabled, and after a reboot the RAM disk still exists.
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Ann

Re: Browser cache location reverts from RAM disk back to HDD   13 April 2021, 15:23

It looks like occasionally the new versions of Chrome/Edge delete the symbolic link and re-create a regular cache directory. It is unclear why they do that; maybe because their cache format changes from version to version.

One way to deal with this would be to run the Cache Relocator periodically, to check if the redirection is in place.

Alternatively, you can edit the shortcut that you use for opening Chrome/Edge and add the --disk-cache-dir parameter. For example, your shortcut can look like this:
"C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe" --disk-cache-dir=R:\Cache
where R:\Cache is the browser cache folder on the RAM disk.

This should always use the specified location.
It looks like there is now a similar problem with Firefox.

SoftPerfect Cache Relocator is a great little program, however it is not relocating but duplicating Firefox cache. Basically there is cache in the old location on Disk C, and in the intended RAM drive location.

Maybe Firefox has changed its settings in the latest versions, but it is clearly not allowing the cache to simply completely relocate to a RAM drive.
SoftPerfect Support forum - Ann avatar image
Ann

Re: Browser cache location reverts from RAM disk back to HDD   05 May 2021, 11:00

Cache Relocator works by creating a symbolic link that makes Firefox use a different location for its cache. It is possible that you mistake the symlink for a real cache folder. Its icon can look identical to that of a folder, and it will be in the original cache location on your C drive. But there is no reason for the cache data to be "duplicated". It is possible it reverted to the hard drive, but there shouldn't be two copies of it. Here is a more detailed guide on symbolic links.

However, if Firefox now detects that its cache is a symbolic link and decides to delete it, there is unfortunately nothing we can do about it.

Sometimes you can find a solution faster if you try the forum search, have a look at the knowledge base, or check the software user manual to see if your question has already been answered.

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