Why Do We Need Storage in Web Development?
The HTTP protocol is the backbone of communication between a client (typically a web browser) and a server. However, HTTP is stateless, which means it does not remember anything about previous requests or responses. Every time a user sends a request, the server treats it as a new one without any memory of past interactions.
To solve this problem, web developers use Local Storage, Session Storage, and Cookies to keep track of data on the client-side. This helps in:
Remembering user sessions.
Storing user preferences.
Improving performance by avoiding unnecessary server requests.
Managing authentication and personalization.
What is Local Storage?
Local Storage is a type of storage in the browser that allows websites to store data in the form of key-value pairs. The special thing about local storage is that the data persists even after the browser or tab is closed. When the user returns later, the data remains available.
Key Points About Local Storage
Storage Capacity: Around 5MB to 10MB (depends on the browser).
Persistence: Data is permanent until manually deleted or removed using JavaScript.
Scope: Data is saved per domain and is also dependent on protocol (HTTP or HTTPS).
Browser Support: Supported by all major browsers.
Methods of Local Storage
setItem(key, value): Used to store data.
localStorage.setItem("username", "John");
getItem(key): Used to retrieve stored data.
let user = localStorage.getItem("username");
removeItem(key): Used to delete specific data.
localStorage.removeItem("username");
clear(): Clears all data from local storage.
localStorage.clear();
What is Session Storage?
Session Storage is similar to local storage, but the main difference is that its data is temporary. The stored data is deleted automatically once the browser tab or window is closed.
Key Points About Session Storage
Storage Capacity: Around 5MB.
Persistence: Data exists only until the tab or window is open. If closed, data is gone.
Scope: Each tab/window has its own session storage. Opening the same site in a new tab creates a new session.
Browser Support: Supported by all major browsers.
Methods of Session Storage
setItem(key, value): Used to save data temporarily.
sessionStorage.setItem("theme", "dark");
getItem(key): Used to get stored data.
let theme = sessionStorage.getItem("theme");
removeItem(key): Removes a specific item.
sessionStorage.removeItem("theme");
clear(): Deletes all session data.
sessionStorage.clear();
Session Storage is ideal for temporary data like form inputs, shopping cart items during checkout, or session-based authentication.
What are Cookies?
Cookies are small pieces of data stored in the browser. They have been used for a long time in web development, mainly for session management, authentication, and tracking.
When you visit a website, the server may send a cookie to your browser. The browser then stores it and sends it back with every future request to the same server. This helps the server recognize you.
Key Points About Cookies:
Storage Capacity: Very small, around 4KB.
Persistence: Can be set as session-based (deleted on close) or persistent (expires after a set time).
Scope: Shared between client and server.
Data Transfer: Sent with every HTTP request, which can slow performance.
Uses: Authentication, user tracking, and personalization.
Example of setting a cookie:
document.cookie = "username=John; expires=Fri, 31 Dec 2025 23:59:59 GMT; path=/";
Cookies are very useful for authentication (like login sessions), but should not be used for storing large amounts of data.
Difference Between Local Storage, Session Storage, and Cookies
| Feature | Local Storage | Session Storage | Cookies |
|---|
| Storage Capacity | 5MB – 10MB | 5MB | 4KB |
| Persistence | Permanent (until cleared) | Temporary (tab/window) | Based on expiry settings |
| Scope | Per domain + protocol | Per tab/window | Shared with the server |
| Data Transfer | Not sent to the server | Not sent to the server | Sent with every request |
| Read/Write | Client-side only | Client-side only | Client & Server |
| Usage | Storing app data, themes, and preferences | Temporary user state | Authentication, tracking |
Summary
Local Storage, Session Storage, and Cookies are different ways to store data in a user’s browser. Local storage keeps data permanently until it is deleted, session storage keeps data only while a tab is open, and cookies store small pieces of data that can also be shared with the server. As a web developer, it is important to understand these differences so that you can choose the right storage option depending on the use case. Local storage is best for large and long-term data, session storage is good for temporary information, and cookies are mainly used for authentication and user tracking.