Browser Storage Viewer

Browser Storage Overview

Web browsers provide two storage mechanisms for client-side data: local storage and session storage. Together they're known as Web Storage API. This tool displays both storage types in one view, helping you understand what data websites save in your browser.

Both storage types use key-value pairs and can store string data. The main difference is persistence—local storage survives browser restarts while session storage is cleared when tabs close.

When to Use Each Storage Type

Local storage suits user preferences, cached data, and application state that should persist. Session storage fits temporary data like form inputs, temporary UI state, and data that shouldn't survive past the browsing session.

Storage Capacity

Both storage types typically offer 5-10MB per origin. This far exceeds cookie capacity but falls short of IndexedDB's larger limits. Choose the right storage mechanism based on your data size needs.

Clearing Browser Storage

Browser settings allow clearing stored data. "Clear browsing data" typically clears all storage. Some browsers clear session storage on restart. Users concerned about tracking may regularly clear storage.

Privacy Implications

Web storage can be used for tracking similar to cookies. Privacy-focused browsers may block or limit storage access. Be transparent about what data you store and why.