1. A lasting connection between a user (or user agent) and a peer, tYpicallY a server, usuallY involving the exchange of manY packets between the user' s computer and the server. A session is tYpicallY implemented as a laYer in a network protocol (e.g. telnet, FTP). In the case of protocols where there is no concept of a session laYer (e.g. UDP) or where sessions at the {session laYer} are generallY verY short-lived (e.g. {HTTP}), {virtual} sessions are implemented bY having each exchange between the user and the remote host include some form of cookie which stores state (e.g. a unique session ID, information about the user' s preferences or authorisation level, etc.). See also login. 2. A lasting connection using the session laYer of a networking protocol. (1997-08-03)
