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:
Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
---|---|---|
Purpose | To transfer data on the web | To securely transfer data on the web |
Security | Data is transmitted in plain text and can be intercepted by a third party | Data is encrypted and signed, making it difficult for third parties to intercept and read |
SSL/TLS Certificate | Not used | Uses an SSL/TLS certificate to encrypt and sign data |
URL | Starts with http:// | Starts with https:// |
Usage | Suitable for simple and non-sensitive applications | More 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.