Final answer:
User-entered credentials post-successful login can be stored as client-side cookies, on the server-side in a database, or in an XML file, but the server-side database option is generally most secure when using strong encryption.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a login is successful, several options are available for storing user-entered credentials, although some are more secure than others:
- As a cookie on client side: This can be used for storing session IDs or tokens but storing actual credentials is not considered secure.
- In a database on the server side: Credentials can be securely stored on a server database provided they are encrypted and the database is secure against unauthorized access.
- In an XML file on the server side: This is similar to a database but may not offer as many layers of security and integrity checks.
- In a hidden area in the client's web browser: This is not a secure method and should be avoided for storing sensitive information like credentials.
Strong encryption and security measures are necessary regardless of the storage method chosen to protect user data from unauthorized access and potential security breaches.