A session cookie, sometimes known as an in-memory cookie or transient cookie, is a small text file that is temporarily stored in the user's device memory during an online session. It is a type of cookie that is used by websites to enhance the browsing experience of users and provide personalized services. Unlike regular cookies, session cookies are not stored on the user's hard drive and are automatically deleted once the session ends or the browser is closed.
Session cookies play a crucial role in maintaining the state information of a user's session on a website. They are generated by the server and contain session-specific data such as user preferences, login credentials, and other session-related details. These cookies help the website remember user actions or selections, allowing them to navigate through different pages without any authentication issues or loss of information.
Session cookies are generally considered secure as they are limited to a specific session and do not collect personally identifiable information unless explicitly provided by the user. They are also useful for monitoring website traffic patterns, identifying unique users, and providing smooth interaction between the user and the website.
Overall, session cookies aid in providing a seamless and personalized browsing experience for users while maintaining the privacy and security of their information.
The word "session cookie" derives its etymology from two distinct terms: "session" and "cookie".
1. Session:
The term "session" comes from the Latin word "sessio", meaning "act of sitting" or "session of a legislative body". It originally referred to a formal meeting or assembly, typically associated with discussions, decision-making, or specific tasks. In computer science, a session generally refers to a period of continuous activity by a user on a network or a website, during which the user interacts with various resources or performs specific actions.
2. Cookie:
The term "cookie" has a different origin, tracing back to the Dutch word "koekje", meaning "little cake" or "biscuit". In the context of computing, a cookie is a small text file that a website stores on a user's computer or device.