Which of these describes cookies used in web browsing?

Cookies play a fundamental role in enhancing the user experience during web browsing by storing session information and user preferences. When you visit a website, cookies are created to remember details about your visit, such as login credentials, items in your shopping cart, and your preferred language or layout. This allows for a more personalized experience, as cookies help websites recognize returning users and configure themselves according to previous interactions.

For instance, when you log into a site, cookies maintain your logged-in status even as you navigate between different pages. This capability reduces the need for users to repeatedly enter their information and allows for smoother navigation.

While other options mention security enhancements, ad blocking, or malware, they do not accurately describe the primary function of cookies. Cookies are not security programs—they do not enhance security directly, nor are they related to software that blocks advertisements or harmful files. Instead, they are simple data files that facilitate a more customized and efficient web browsing experience.