JavaScript Cookies
JavaScript Cookies
A cookie is a small piece of data stored in the browser.
Cookies are often used to:
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Save user preferences
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Track sessions
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Store login information
Unlike LocalStorage/SessionStorage, cookies are sent to the server with every HTTP request.
1️⃣ Create a Cookie
This creates a cookie named username with value Vipul.
2️⃣ Set Cookie with Expiration
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expires– Sets expiration date -
path=/– Makes cookie accessible on the entire website
3️⃣ Read Cookies
Get a specific cookie
4️⃣ Delete a Cookie
To delete a cookie, set its expiration date to a past date:
5️⃣ Secure and HttpOnly Cookies
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Secure – Only sent over HTTPS
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HttpOnly – Not accessible via JavaScript (for security)
Example:
Note:
HttpOnlycookies cannot be created via JavaScript. They must be set by the server.
6️⃣ Example: Cookie Storage for User Theme
7️⃣ Cookies vs Web Storage
| Feature | Cookies | LocalStorage | SessionStorage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Size | ~4KB | ~5MB | ~5MB |
| Expiration | Can set expiry | Until manually cleared | Until tab closed |
| Accessible by server? | ✔ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Used for | Authentication, small data | Large client-side data | Temporary session data |
✅ Summary
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Use cookies for server communication (sessions, login)
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Use LocalStorage/SessionStorage for larger client-side data
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Always manage expiration dates
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Avoid storing sensitive data in client-accessible cookies
