Cookies are small text files that websites save on a visitor’s device (computer, phone, or tablet) when they browse. These files help the site “remember” information about the user—like language preferences, login status, or items in a shopping cart—so the experience feels smoother on return visits.
Are cookies important for your website?
Yes—in most cases, they are essential. Here’s why:
1. Improve User Experience
Cookies let your site remember choices. For example:
- Keeping users logged in during a session
- Saving language or region settings
- Retaining items in a shopping cart
Without cookies, every page load would feel like the user’s first visit.
2. Enable Analytics and Insights
Most website owners use tools like Google Analytics or Matomo to understand traffic. These rely on cookies to track:
- How many visitors you get
- Which pages are popular
- Where users drop off
This data helps you make smarter decisions—like improving navigation or fixing slow-loading pages.
3. Boost Security
Security-focused cookies can:
- Detect and block suspicious behavior (e.g., repeated failed logins)
- Prevent cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks
- Help identify bots or spam traffic
For high-traffic or public-service sites (like earthquake monitoring platforms), this layer of protection is critical.
4. Support Legal and Functional Compliance
If you run ads, accept payments, or use third-party integrations (like social media buttons), cookies often power those features. Some regulations—even if your site is simple—require transparency about their use.
Types of Cookies to Know
- Session cookies: Temporary; deleted when the browser closes. Used for logins or forms.
- Persistent cookies: Stay longer (days to years). Used for preferences or analytics.
- First-party cookies: Set by your domain. Generally trusted.
- Third-party cookies: Set by external services (e.g., Facebook, Google Ads). Being phased out by browsers due to privacy concerns.
Privacy & Best Practices
While cookies are useful, user privacy matters. Many countries (like those in the EU under GDPR) require:
- Clear notice that you use cookies
- Consent before non-essential cookies load
- An easy way for users to opt out
Tip: Use a self-hosted analytics tool like Matomo (as ETH Zurich does) to collect anonymized data without relying on third parties. This keeps insights valuable while respecting privacy.
Do You Need Cookies?
- Static brochure sites (no forms, logins, or analytics): Maybe not—but even then, basic analytics cookies help you understand your audience.
- Dynamic sites (e-commerce, blogs, portals): Absolutely yes.
The key is transparency and control. Inform users, minimize data collection, and only use what you truly need.
In short: Website cookies aren’t just technical clutter—they’re vital tools for performance, security, and growth, as long as you use them responsibly.
