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What are cookies?

Article written by: Jia Fletcher

Article designed by: Jia Fletcher and Natasha Gumpula



Not Your Regular Cookie


Do you know what cookies are? No—I’m not talking about the delectable, chocolatey desserts you’re now suddenly craving. I’m talking about web cookies. Does that ring a bell? Most times when you open a new website, you may see a popup that asks you to either “accept all cookies” or adjust your cookie preferences. What exactly are these cookies, and what do they mean for us as online users?


So, What Are Cookies?


A web cookie (also referred to as an internet/browser cookie) is a small piece of data that websites store in order to improve a user’s online experience. When a user browses a website, the cookie file gets sent to your browser. A small text file is then generated—it’s essentially a small packet of user data unique to you! This file is then copied; your device will have one copy, while the website has the other. This is so that there is

continuous communication during your browsing session;

cookies ensure that there are no random surprises or changes in your settings. It keeps things consistent.







(Image from progress.com)  


Websites will use cookies for various reasons, such as:

  • Identifying users quickly

  • Keeping users signed in

  • Managing browsing activity

  • Saving data (like an online shopping cart!)

  • Saving settings the user has set

  • Gathering data on the user’s preferences (which then is geared towards promoting ads/material they would prefer)


Types of Cookies


There are many different kinds of cookies with their own unique purposes and roles. They have differences in tracking, storing, and longevity.


  1. Session cookies:

    1. Tracks: user’s activity and identity while on a website.

    2. Stored in: User’s device until browser closes.

    3. Longevity: Expire once session finishes and/or user logs out.

  2. First-party cookies:

    1. Tracks: Analytical data and user preferences.

    2. Stored in: The web page.

    3. Longevity: Should close out once session is over/user logs out, but may need to be manually deleted at times.

  3. Third-party cookies:

    1. Tracks: User’s online activity, habits, and tastes.

    2. Stored in: The user’s device.

    3. Longevity: Lasts for less than a day or up to 2 weeks.

  4. Persistent cookies:

    1. Tracks: User’s online activity, preferences, and login details.

    2. Stored in: Device’s hard drive.

    3. Longevity: Will vary based on the website, but usually lasts for a few days up to a year.

  5. Flash cookies:

    1. Tracks: User’s preferences, settings, login details, and ads they’ve interacted with.

    2. Stored in: Adobe files.

    3. Longevity: Usually remain active for years.


Accept or Deny?


So, now that you’ve learned about cookies, should you accept or deny them?


It’s best to accept the cookies that are most necessary for a better user experience or are on a reputable website. Declining cookies is best if the website is sketchy, or if these cookies are simply unnecessary (they may be ineffective for 

improving user experience or are putting your sensitive data at risk). If you’re ever unsure, just manage your cookie preferences to adjust it to what you feel most comfortable with.



  (Image from timesinternet.in)













Works Cited

Author                                                                                                                                                , et al. “Internet Cookies: Types, Function, and Alternatives.” Times Internet: Everything. Everyday., 7 Nov. 2023,


Team, Cookieyes. “What Are Internet Cookies and What Do They Do?” CookieYes, 12 Aug. 2025,


Tenev, Anton. “Sitefinity, Chrome 80 Samesite Attribute, Cross-Site Cookies.” Progress Blogs, Progress, 13 Nov. 2024,


Zahnd, Thomas. “Cookies Und Online Marketing – Das Ende Einer Freundschaft.” My Online Marketi, 8 Feb. 2024,

 
 
 

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