This article describes what "cookies" are, how websites use them, and how you can manage the cookies that Firefox stores.
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What is a cookie?
A cookie is information stored on your computer by a website you visit. In some browsers, each cookie is a small file but in Firefox, all cookies are stored in a single file, located in the Firefox profile folder.
Cookies often store your settings for a website, such as your preferred language or location. When you return to the site, Firefox sends back the cookies that belong to the site. This allows the site to present you with information customized to fit your needs.
Cookies can store a wide range of information, including personally identifiable information (such as your name, home address, email address, or telephone number). However, this information can only be stored if you provide it - websites cannot gain access to information you didn't provide to them, and they can't access other files on your computer.
By default, the activities of storing and sending cookies are invisible to you. However, you can change your Firefox settings to allow you to approve or deny cookie storage requests, delete stored cookies automatically when you close Firefox, and more.
Cookie settings
Cookie settings are managed in Firefox OptionsPreferences. To access these settings:
-
In the Menu bar at the top of the screen, click and select . Click the menu button
and select .Click the menu button and select .
- Select the panel.
Cookie settings are under Content Blocking andEnhanced Tracking Protection and Cookies and Site Data.
For instructions on how to manage cookie settings for certain tasks, see:
- Clear cookies and site data in Firefox: How to remove cookies that have already been stored by websites.
- Block websites from storing cookies and site data in Firefox: How to block certain websites from storing cookies.
- Third-party cookies and Firefox tracking protection: How to block websites other than the one you're currently visiting from storing cookies.
Troubleshooting cookies
If you are having a problem with Firefox that involves cookies, see:
