session

networking 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 sessionlayer 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)