Cookie – Definition and meaning
What is Cookie? Find out more about the definition and use of cookies in our lexicon. Everything you need to know about cookies. Read now!
What is a cookie?
A cookie is a small text file that is stored by a website in a user's browser. These files contain information that enables the website to recognise the user during their visit or on future visits. Cookies play a crucial role on the web as they can optimise both the user experience and website performance.
Types of cookies
There are different types of cookies, which are categorised according to their functionality and use:
- Session cookies: These cookies are temporary and are deleted as soon as the user closes their browser. They store temporary information that is required during a session.
- Persistent cookies: In contrast to session cookies, persistent cookies remain on the user's device and have a set expiry date. They are often used to store login information and user preferences.
- Third-party cookies: These cookies are set by third-party providers, i.e. by a domain other than the one the user is visiting. They are often used for marketing and analysis purposes.
- First-party cookies: These originate from the visited website itself and are used to improve the user experience.
How do cookies work?
When a user visits a website, the web server can send information to the browser, which then saves it in the cookie. On each subsequent visit to this website, the browser sends the cookie back to the server, allowing the website to identify the user and provide personalised content. Cookies can store the following information
- Login information
- Language settings
- Preferences of the user
- Shopping basket contents
Cookies and data protection
In recent years, the issue of data protection and the use of cookies has become increasingly important. Many countries have enacted laws that require clear user consent for the use of cookies. The EU's General Data ProtectionRegulation (GDPR), for example, requires website operators to inform their users about the use of cookies and obtain consent before tracking and marketing cookies are set.
Advantages and disadvantages of cookies
Advantages:
- Improved user experience through personalised content.
- Faster navigation on websites as relevant data is stored.
- Efficient use of online shopping baskets.
Disadvantages:
- In addition to the user experience, cookies can also be perceived as intrusive as they collect data on browsing behaviour.
- Privacy risks, especially with third-party cookies used for tracking purposes.
How to manage cookies?
Users can manage the use of cookies in their browser settings. They can disable cookies completely or delete specific cookies. Most modern browsers also offer the option that cookies may only be set after confirmation.
Illustrative example on the subject of cookies
Imagine you visit an online shop to buy a new pair of shoes. On your first visit, a cookie is stored on your computer containing information about your selection in the shopping basket. When you return to the site later, the site recognises that you have previously searched for shoes and even shows you alternative options based on your previous interests. Without cookies, it would be much more difficult to provide such a personalised experience.
Conclusion
Cookies are an essential part of the modern web. They help to improve the user experience and provide personalised content. At the same time, it is important for users to be aware of the use of cookies and the associated data protection risks.
For more information on related topics, take a look at our article on cybersecurity and privacy policies.
Frequently asked questions
Cookies fulfil several important functions on the web. They enable websites to identify users and offer personalised content. This includes saving login information, language settings and shopping basket content. Cookies also improve the user experience by speeding up navigation on the website and facilitating interaction with the site. They also help to analyse user behaviour, which provides valuable insights for website operators.
Cookies are managed via your browser settings. There you can activate or deactivate cookies and delete specific cookies. Most modern browsers also offer the option of setting cookies only after confirmation. These options help you to protect your privacy and retain control over your data. In the data protection settings you will also find information about the cookies you have accepted.
First-party cookies originate from the website you visit directly and are used to improve your user experience, for example by storing login information. Third-party cookies, on the other hand, are set by third-party providers that are not associated with the website you are visiting. These cookies are often used for marketing and analytics purposes and can be perceived as less trustworthy as they track browsing behaviour across different websites.
In many countries, especially in the EU, cookies are subject to strict data protection regulations. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires that website operators clearly inform their users about the use of cookies and obtain their consent before tracking and marketing cookies are set. These regulations are intended to ensure that users retain control over their personal data and are informed about how their data is used.
Cookies offer numerous advantages, such as an improved user experience through personalised content and faster navigation on websites. They also make online shopping easier by saving shopping basket contents. However, there are also disadvantages, as cookies can be perceived as invasive as they collect data about browsing behaviour. Third-party cookies in particular can raise privacy concerns as they track user behaviour across different sites.