Many Web sites send cookies to your computer whenever you visit. Cookies are files that reside on your computer containing bits of information about your browsing preferences, such as whether you choose a low-graphics version of the site, the pages you visit, and the type of computer you use.
Cookies are an important tool for Web sites that deliver customized information.
For example, sites that require user names and passwords may use cookies to store that information. Travel sites also use cookies to store travelers' preferences, such as departure airport, airlines, window or aisle seats, and meal choices. When you visit a site that uses cookies, the site will look to see if it has already sent a cookie to your computer and read the information contained in that cookie. It may also send new cookies or update the existing cookies file. A Web site can access only cookies the site has previously deposited on your computer.