What are cookies in web browsing?

Cookies are small pieces of data that are generated by websites and stored on a user's computer when they visit those sites. Their main purpose is to remember information about the user's visit, which enhances the browsing experience. For example, cookies can retain user preferences, session information, and items added to shopping carts. This allows websites to provide personalized content and maintain session states as users navigate through multiple pages or return to the site later.

The use of cookies is crucial for various functionalities, such as authenticating users and tracking their interactions with the site, which in turn enables more efficient online experiences and targeted advertising. Understanding the role of cookies is important for recognizing how personal data is managed in web interactions.