Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is an application-layer protocol for transmitting hypermedia files, such as HTML. It was designed for communication between web browsers and web servers. HTTP is the foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web, where hypertext documents (e.g. hyperlinks) can be accessed by users easily. Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) is an extension of HTTP. It is used for secure communication over a computer network, and is widely used on the Internet. In HTTPS, the communication protocol is encrypted using Transport Layer Security.
Differences:
- HTTP is unsecured while HTTPS is secured.
- HTTP operates at application layer, while HTTPS operates at transport layer and uses TLS/SSL certificate to ensure authentication..
HTTP, the foundation of data communication on the web, operates on a stateless protocol, meaning it doesn’t retain any memory of past web interactions. Each request from a browser to a server is treated as an independent transaction that is unrelated to any previous request. This stateless nature makes HTTP ideal for the vast, interconnected environment of the web, allowing for quick and efficient data retrieval and transfer.
HTTPS adds a crucial layer of security to this process. By incorporating Transport Layer Security (TLS), formerly known as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), HTTPS encrypts the data exchanged between the user’s browser and the web server. This encryption is vital for protecting sensitive data such as login credentials, credit card information, and personal details from being intercepted by malicious entities during transmission.
The shift from HTTP to HTTPS has been significant in the online world, particularly for e-commerce and online banking websites, where ensuring the security and integrity of user data is paramount. Websites using HTTPS display a padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar, indicating that the connection is secure and the data is encrypted. In addition to providing encryption, HTTPS also ensures data integrity, which means that the data cannot be modified or corrupted during transfer, unintentionally or maliciously, without being detected.
Moreover, HTTPS is now considered a standard web practice, and its use impacts search engine rankings and user trust. Websites still using HTTP are often marked as ‘not secure’ by web browsers, which can deter visitors and negatively affect a site’s credibility. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the adoption of HTTPS plays a crucial role in ensuring a safer and more secure internet.