HTTP vs HTTPS

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HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) are protocols used for communication on the World Wide Web.

              HTTP vs HTTPS

     ┌──────┐                      ┌─────┐
     │      ├──────────────────────┤     │
     │      │   insecure connection│     │
     └──────┘                      └─────┘
       user                          HTTP
     ───────────────────────────────────────
                                    HTTPS
     ┌──────┐                      ┌─────┐
     │      │  encrypted connection│     │
     │      ├──────────────────────┤     │
     └──────┘                      └─────┘
       user                    SSL certificate

HTTP is the standard protocol for transmitting data on the web. When a user makes a request to a website using HTTP, the server sends back the requested data. However, HTTP does not encrypt the data being transmitted, which means that it can be intercepted and read by a third party.

HTTPS is a secure version of HTTP. It encrypts the data being transmitted between the client and the server, making it difficult for third parties to intercept and read the data. The encryption is achieved using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificates. When a user makes a request to a website using HTTPS, the server first sends its SSL or TLS certificate to the client, which the client then verifies. If the certificate is valid, the client and server establish a secure, encrypted connection for the duration of the session.

Here the head to head comparation:

FeatureHTTPHTTPS
PurposeTo transfer data on the webTo securely transfer data on the web
SecurityData is transmitted in plain text and can be intercepted by a third partyData is encrypted and signed, making it difficult for third parties to intercept and read
SSL/TLS CertificateNot usedUses an SSL/TLS certificate to encrypt and sign data
URLStarts with http://Starts with https://
UsageSuitable for simple and non-sensitive applicationsMore suitable for sensitive applications such as online banking and e-commerce

In conclusion, HTTPS is a more secure version of HTTP as it encrypts the data being transmitted, protecting it from third-party interception. This makes it more suitable for sensitive applications such as online banking, e-commerce, and other applications where security is a concern.

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