HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, and is a protocol – or a prescribed order and syntax for presenting information -, used to transfer data over a network. Most information sent over the Internet, including website content and API calls, uses the HTTP protocol.
How does HTTP works?
The operation of the protocol, as we have already mentioned, is executed between a client and a server located somewhere in the world. Step by step, HTTP works like this:
- It all starts when we enter the browser and look for a web page, for example xupxup.net
- The browser understands that we are making an HTTP request. What it does is that it sends the request to the server that hosts keepcoding.io. The browser asks the server to send it the file.
- The server receives that request and searches its domain store and information for the requested web page.
- The server sends the file to the browser and the latter is responsible for reading the information collected.
- Finally, the browser processes the information and shows us the web page.
What is HTTPS?
HTTPS is an enhancement to the HTTP protocol in terms of security. Its operation is the same as HTTP, but now we add an encrypted language. If we use HTTP, the browser will send the information in the form of text, and anyone along the way, on any server, machine, or on any cable going from your computer to the server and vice versa, could read that content.
Today, almost all web pages work with HTTPS, and those that do not, are known as untrusted pages. You are probably familiar with SSL (Secure Socket Layers) certificates; This certificate recognizes the authenticity of a website and allows an encrypted connection. That is, it enables the HTTPS protocol.