Online shopping, the practice of purchasing goods and services over the internet, has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility. Consumers can browse and buy products from the comfort of their homes, 24/7, without the need to visit physical stores. This method offers a vast selection of items, often with competitive pricing and the ability to compare options from different sellers. Furthermore, online shopping can be more environmentally friendly by reducing the need for transportation and packaging. 

Online shopping involves several key steps. First, consumers access online marketplaces or retailer websites, often via dedicated apps or web browsers. They then browse through product listings, often using search filters and categories to find what they need. Once they've selected items, they add them to a virtual shopping cart. Finally, they proceed to checkout, providing payment and shipping information to finalize the purchase. The purchased items are then delivered directly to the customer's specified address. 

While online shopping offers numerous benefits, it's also important to be aware of potential drawbacks. Some consumers may be hesitant about security concerns, particularly when providing payment details online. Others might miss the tactile experience of physically examining items before buying them. However, with the rise of secure payment gateways and detailed product descriptions, online shopping continues to grow as a preferred method for many consumers.