When do sessions start in a web application?

In a web application, sessions primarily start upon the first access to the application. This means that the moment a user accesses the app through their browser, a session is typically initiated to track that user's interactions throughout the duration of their visit.

This process typically involves storing session-related data that can help maintain user state, such as user preferences or authentication status. Starting the session at this point is crucial for providing a personalized experience, as it allows the application to remember the user and maintain continuity between different interactions during that session.

Although user authentication is an important aspect of many applications, it is not a prerequisite for a session to begin. A session can be created even before a user is authenticated, allowing for features like guest experiences or temporary tracking. Therefore, the initiation of a session at the first access to the application aligns with standard session management practices in web development.