Root Clearing Data/Cache & Dalvik Cache

[ahimoth]

So I am planning on trying out Apex RC2 and I am "trying" to clear my data/cache and dalvik cache. I'm in recovery and I see in advanced where to Wipe Dalvik Cache seemed pretty easy and then I see wipe cache partition and another option for wipe data/factory reset.

My question is do I need to wipe data/factory reset and then flash apex or do I do both that and the cache partition?

Thanks for the help!

 

[ardchoille]

So I am planning on trying out Apex RC2 and I am "trying" to clear my data/cache and dalvik cache. I'm in recovery and I see in advanced where to Wipe Dalvik Cache seemed pretty easy and then I see wipe cache partition and another option for wipe data/factory reset.

My question is do I need to wipe data/factory reset and then flash apex or do I do both that and the cache partition?

Thanks for the help!

Wiping data/factory reset will wipe everything except the caches off your phone. Think "formatting your hard drive". This should only be done prior to flashing a new ROM because a new ROM needs a clean system in order to work properly.

Clearing Dalvik and cache can be done at any time but the initial boot after doing so will take longer as the caches need to be rebuilt.

If it's a new ROM and not a patch or upgrade to the current ROM, I recommend wiping data/factory reset, wipe dalvik cache and cache partition. This will give the new ROM a clean system to work on without having any remnants of the previous ROM in the way.

However, you should always follow the recommended procedure of the ROM developer.

 

[ahimoth]

That was a fantastic explanation! Thank you. I was trying to follow their instructions as it said to wipe data/cache I just wanted to make sure that I was clearing the correct thing. And, what you said is exactly what I thought I should have done.

 

[colchiro]

+1

A very minor clarification, my understanding is the Dalvik cache is rebuilt on the first startup but the other cache is rebuilt when apps are started for the first time, part of the reason why a new rom is lethargic for a day or two.

Both caches are used to speed up your device.

Both are safe to do at any time and are often used to clear up minor issues (like FC's). Fixing permissions (from many apps, including rom manager) is also safe, and none of the above should result in losing data.