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HTML Web Storage

Storing Data with Web Storage

HTML web storage uses localStorage and sessionStorage for client-side data.

Introduction to HTML Web Storage

HTML Web Storage is a powerful feature that provides a way to store data on the client-side. It allows web applications to store data persistently or temporarily through two main methods: localStorage and sessionStorage. Both are part of the Web Storage API, which was designed to be more secure and efficient than using cookies.

Understanding localStorage

The localStorage object stores data with no expiration date. This means that the data will not be deleted when the browser is closed and will be available the next day, week, or even year, until it is explicitly deleted by the user or the application.

localStorage is perfect for storing data you want to persist across sessions, such as user preferences or settings.

Understanding sessionStorage

The sessionStorage object is similar to localStorage; however, it only stores data for the duration of the page session. This means that data is cleared when the page session ends, which happens when the browser or tab is closed. This is useful for storing temporary data like single-session form data or transient application states.

Differences Between localStorage and sessionStorage

  • Persistence: localStorage is persistent across browser sessions, while sessionStorage is cleared when the page session ends.
  • Scope: localStorage is shared across all tabs and windows with the same origin, whereas sessionStorage is unique to the tab or window.
  • Capacity: Both have a similar storage limit (usually around 5MB), but this may vary based on the browser.

Security Considerations

While Web Storage is more secure than cookies, it is essential to remember that it is still accessible via JavaScript. Ensure sensitive data is not stored in localStorage or sessionStorage. Always validate and sanitize data retrieved from storage to prevent XSS attacks.

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