The _ga cookie is used by Google Analytics to identify users across visits. To check it yourself, see /how-to-inspect-cookies-in-your-browser.
Who sets it
Google LLC — set by Google Analytics to attribute activity to unique users.
What it does
_ga stores a client identifier (clientId) that distinguishes unique visitors and helps count sessions and pageviews.
Duration
Default expiration is 2 years from the last update.
Consent type
Analytics cookie; generally non-essential and requires user consent under many privacy laws.
If you need to verify this cookie on your device, inspect cookies in your browser (/how-to-inspect-cookies-in-your-browser) or read our tracking guide at https://auditcookies.com/blog/tracking.