Cookies | Computer for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

What are cookies? 

• Cookies are small files that websites store on a user's device.
• They serve various functions such as:
  • Saving Personal Details: Cookies can save personal details to personalize the user experience, including name, email address, and other preferences.
  • Tracking User Preferences: Cookies are capable of tracking user preferences like language settings, font size, and color scheme to customize the website experience.
  • Holding Items in an Online Shopping Basket: Cookies can retain items in an online shopping cart, allowing users to continue shopping or return later without losing their selected items.
  • Storing Login Details: Cookies have the ability to store login information such as usernames and passwords, making it convenient for users to log in.
  • Storing Relevant Purchases: Cookies can store information about relevant purchases, enhancing the user experience by displaying personalized suggestions.
  • Displaying Relevant Adverts: Cookies play a role in displaying advertisements that are relevant to the user's interests or browsing history.
  • Tracking Visitor Statistics: Cookies help in determining whether a visitor is new or returning, providing insights into visitor behavior and preferences.

Types of Cookies

• Cookies come in two primary forms: session cookies and persistent cookies.

Session Cookies

• Session cookies are temporary files that are active only during a user's browsing session.
• They serve to maintain a user's activity within a single session, like form completion or website navigation.

Persistent Cookies

• Persistent cookies are stored on a user's device for extended periods, typically weeks to years.
• These cookies retain user preferences such as language settings, login information, and items in a shopping cart.

Cookies improve user experience and facilitate easier interaction with websites. Nevertheless, they also pose privacy risks, necessitating responsible usage by website owners.