text: A computer cookie is given to you by a website.  it's a small program that gerally has your settings to the website.  Your names and password for that site will be stored in a cookie so when you go back to the site it will automatically log you in or at least quickly log you in (you won't have to punch in the name or password again).  Some sites have cookies that can track where you are going on the net and those can slow you down.  Those types of cookies are called spyware.  If you want to delete all your cookies, got to tools, internet options and delete cookies.