# local shared object

> piece of data that websites using Adobe Flash may store on a user’s computer

**Wikidata**: [Q1312725](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1312725)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_shared_object)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/local-shared-object

## Summary
A Local Shared Object (LSO) is a piece of data that websites using Adobe Flash may store on a user’s computer. Functioning as a data storage medium, it is classified as both a file format and a software component. These objects are widely recognized by the alias "Flash cookie" and utilize the `.sol` file extension.

## Key Facts
*   **Definition:** A Local Shared Object is a piece of data that websites utilizing Adobe Flash may store on a user’s computer.
*   **Aliases:** Commonly referred to as a "Flash cookie," "LSO," or "supercookie." It is also known as "Objeto Local Compartido" (Spanish) and "ローカル・シェアード・オブジェクト" (Japanese).
*   **File Extension:** The standard file extension for a Local Shared Object is `.sol`.
*   **Classification:** It is classified as an instance of software and a file format. It is a subclass of a data storage medium.
*   **NARA ID:** The National Archives and Records Administration file format preservation plan ID for this entity is NF00690.
*   **Documentation:** Official documentation is maintained by Adobe (help.adobe.com).
*   **Wikipedia Presence:** The entity has a Wikipedia sitelink count of 9 across languages including English, German, Spanish, French, Japanese, and Chinese.

## FAQs
### Q: What is a Local Shared Object used for?
A: A Local Shared Object is used as a data storage medium. It allows websites using Adobe Flash to store pieces of data directly on a user’s computer.

### Q: What file extension is associated with Local Shared Objects?
A: Local Shared Objects utilize the `.sol` file extension.

### Q: Is a Local Shared Object considered software?
A: Yes, according to structured knowledge classifications, a Local Shared Object is considered an instance of software as well as a file format.

## Why It Matters
Local Shared Objects represent a specific mechanism of client-side data persistence within the Adobe Flash ecosystem. Their significance lies in their capacity to function as a "data storage medium," allowing web applications to maintain state or user preferences across sessions similar to browser cookies.

The entity is distinct enough to possess a dedicated preservation plan ID (NF00690) from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), indicating its relevance in the context of digital preservation and government records management. The inclusion of the alias "supercookie" highlights its capability to store data, often with different parameters or persistence than standard HTTP cookies. As a cross-platform file format (indicated by `.sol`), it serves as a technical standard for data exchange between the Flash software and the user's local file system.

## Notable For
*   **"Flash Cookie" Alias:** Widely known as a "Flash cookie" or "supercookie," distinguishing it from standard browser cookies.
*   **Hybrid Classification:** Uniquely classified as both a **software** component and a **file format**.
*   **NARA Recognition:** Assigned a specific File Format Preservation Plan ID (NF00690) by the National Archives and Records Administration.
*   **Specific File Extension:** Uses the distinct `.sol` file extension for stored data.

## Body
### Definition and Context
A Local Shared Object (LSO) is technically defined as a piece of data that websites using Adobe Flash may store on a user’s computer. It serves as a mechanism for data retention, falling under the broader subclass of "data storage medium."

### Technical Specifications
The entity functions as a specific file format identifiable by the extension **`.sol`**. In addition to being a file format, it is categorized as "software"—described as a non-tangible executable component of a computer. This dual nature allows it to operate effectively as a storage medium within the Flash environment.

### Nomenclature and Localization
The entity is known by various names across different languages and technical contexts.
*   **English:** Flash cookie, LSO, supercookie.
*   **Spanish:** Objeto Local Compartido, cookie Flash.
*   **Japanese:** ローカル・シェアード・オブジェクト.

### Reference Data
*   **Freebase ID:** /m/0fgpld
*   **Official Resource:** Documentation is available via Adobe at `https://help.adobe.com/en_US/as3/dev/WS5b3ccc516d4fbf351e63e3d118a9b90204-7d80.html`.
*   **Wikipedia Reach:** The topic is covered across 9 different language editions of Wikipedia, including Czech, German, English, Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Chinese.