HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (HTTP Secure) are both protocols for transmitting data over the internet, but HTTPS provides an added layer of security by encrypting the data being sent.
HTTP is the standard protocol used for sending and receiving data on the web. It is the foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web. It allows clients (such as web browsers) to send requests to servers (such as web servers) and receive responses.
HTTPS, on the other hand, is an extension of HTTP that adds an additional layer of security by encrypting the data being sent between the client and the server. This encryption is achieved through the use of an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificate, which is essentially a digital certificate that verifies the identity of the website. When a client establishes a connection with a server over HTTPS, the client and server first exchange certificates to establish a secure connection.
In addition to encryption, HTTPS also provides authentication. This means that the website being accessed is verified as the legitimate website it claims to be, and not an imposter. This is particularly important for sites that handle sensitive information such as login credentials or financial transactions.
HTTPS is considered a more secure protocol than HTTP because it encrypts the data being sent, making it much more difficult for hackers to intercept and steal sensitive information. Additionally, the use of an SSL/TLS certificate ensures that the website being accessed is authentic, and not a phishing site set up to steal user information.
In summary, the main difference between HTTP and HTTPS is that HTTPS adds an additional layer of security by encrypting the data being sent, and providing authentication to ensure that the website being accessed is legitimate. This makes HTTPS a more secure option for sites that handle sensitive information, and it is increasingly becoming the standard for all websites.