The purpose of using cookies in web browsing is to enhance user experience and functionality. Cookies are small text files stored in a user's browser that hold information about their interactions with a website, such as login details, preferences, and shopping cart contents. They enable personalization, allowing websites to remember user choices and settings. Additionally, cookies facilitate session management, enabling users to stay logged in and maintain continuity during their browsing sessions. However, while cookies can improve convenience, they also raise privacy concerns, prompting regulations like GDPR to ensure users are informed about data collection practices.