What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?

When browsing the Internet, you may have noticed that some websites begin with “http” while others begin with “https.” But what exactly is the difference between the two? In this blog post, we will explore the main differences between the two protocols and why it’s important to understand the distinction.

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

HTTP, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is the standard protocol used for transferring data over the internet. It works on layer 7 of ISO/OSI reference model (Application layer). It is the foundation upon which the World Wide Web is built, and is used to transmit data between a web server and a web browser. When a user types a website’s address into their browser, the browser sends a request to the server using HTTP. The server then responds with the requested information, which is then displayed in the browser.

Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS)

HTTPS, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is an extension of HTTP that adds an extra layer of security. It uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) to encrypt the data being transmitted between the web server and the browser. This encryption makes it much more difficult for hackers to intercept and read the data, keeping sensitive information such as login credentials and credit card numbers safe.

Differences between HTTP and HTTPS

One of the main differences between HTTP and HTTPS is the level of security. As previously mentioned, HTTPS uses SSL or TLS to encrypt the data being transmitted, while HTTP does not. Additionally, HTTPS requires a digital certificate, which is a type of identification that verifies the website’s authenticity. This helps to prevent phishing attempts and other types of online scams.

Another difference is that HTTPS uses TCP port 443, while HTTP uses port TCP 80.

It’s important to understand the difference between HTTP and HTTPS because of the added security that HTTPS provides. When browsing the internet, it’s always best to look for the “https” in the website’s address to ensure that your sensitive information is being transmitted securely. In addition, many websites that handle sensitive information, such as online banking and e-commerce sites, now require the use of HTTPS for added security.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between HTTP and HTTPS is crucial in today’s digital world. HTTPS provides an added layer of security to keep your sensitive information safe, and is becoming increasingly important for protecting yourself from online scams and hacking attempts.