Where are Cookies Stored

Cookies are a small piece of data which act as memory to link the user with the website. Users are identified by the cookies and the website can store the user's preferences and other information.

First time when a user visits a site the server sends a cookie to the browser and the browser stores it. The next time whenever the user visits the same site (until cookie expires), the browser sends the cookie to the server and the server identifies the user.

Now, the question arises where are these cookies stored? The answer is, it depends on the browser and the operating system you are using.

Where are Cookies Stored in Chrome

Windows (Chrome)

On Windows, Chrome stores cookies in a single file named Cookies in the following location:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default

Depending on different settings and versions file can also be found at:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Network

Here, <username> is the name of the user account on your computer.

Linux (Chrome)

On Linux, You can find the cookies file at:

~/.config/google-chrome/Default

The name of the file is Cookies.

Where are Cookies Stored in Firefox

Windows (Firefox)

On Windows, Firefox stores cookies in a single file named cookies.sqlite in the following location:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\XXXXXXXX.default

Or

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\XXXXXXXX.default-release

Here, <username> is the name of the user account on your computer and XXXXXXXX is a random string of characters.

Linux (Firefox)

Same for Linux, the cookies are stored in a single file named cookies.sqlite and can be found in these locations:

~/.mozilla/firefox/XXXXXXXX.default

Or

~/.mozilla/firefox/XXXXXXXX.default-release

Where are Cookies Stored in Edge

Windows (Edge)

On Windows, Edge stores cookies in a single file named Cookies in the following location:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default

Or

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default\Network

Here, <username> is the name of the user account on your computer.

Linux (Edge)

On Linux, Edge stores cookies in a single file named Cookies in the following location:

~/.config/microsoft-edge-dev/Default

Or

~/.config/microsoft-edge/Default

Conclusion

Understanding where cookies are stored in various browsers and operating systems empowers users to manage their digital footprint effectively.

While the exact file paths may differ, accessing browser settings or utilizing specialized tools ensures control over cookie management, enhancing privacy and customization. Remember, regular maintenance of cookies can optimize browsing experiences without compromising security or preferences.