Cookies, also known as internet cookies or HTTP cookies, are small text files created by a web server and stored on a user's device (such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet) when they visit a website
. These files contain small pieces of data, often including a unique identifier, that help websites recognize the user and remember information about their visit
. Cookies serve several important functions:
- They allow websites to remember user preferences, such as language settings or items in a shopping cart
- They enable authentication, so users can stay logged in without re-entering passwords repeatedly
- They help personalize the browsing experience by recalling past interactions and preferences
- Some cookies are used for tracking user behavior across visits or sites to deliver targeted advertising or build user profiles
- They assist in security measures, such as fraud prevention and session management
There are two main types of cookies:
- Session cookies : Temporary cookies that exist only during a browsing session and are deleted once the browser is closed. They help with navigation functions like the back button
- Persistent cookies : Cookies that remain on the device for a set period or until manually deleted. These are used for remembering login details or tracking repeated visits over time
In essence, cookies act like a "ticket" that a website gives your browser to identify you on subsequent visits, allowing the site to "remember" you and your preferences, making web browsing more convenient and personalized
. While most cookies are safe and enhance the user experience, some can pose privacy risks if used to track users without consent
. Laws like the EU's GDPR and California's CCPA require websites to obtain user permission before placing certain cookies
. In summary, cookies are essential tools for modern web browsing that store small amounts of data to identify users and tailor their online experience
