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HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is the protocol that powers the web. It's the language your browser uses to talk to websites. Every time you visit a webpage, your browser sends an HTTP request, and the server sends back an HTTP response.
How It Works:
- Client (your browser) sends a request: "Give me this webpage"
- Server processes the request
- Server sends back a response with the webpage content
- Browser displays the page
HTTP Methods:
- GET: Retrieve data (like loading a webpage)
- POST: Send data (like submitting a form)
- PUT: Update existing data
- DELETE: Remove data
Status Codes:
- 200 OK: Success!
- 404 Not Found: Page doesn't exist
- 500 Server Error: Something went wrong on the server
HTTPS:
HTTPS is HTTP with encryption (SSL/TLS). The 'S' stands for Secure. It protects your data from being intercepted.
FAQ
What's the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
HTTPS adds encryption. HTTP sends data in plain text (anyone can read it). HTTPS encrypts data so only the intended recipient can read it.
Is HTTP still used?
Yes, but HTTPS is strongly recommended. Most modern sites use HTTPS by default for security.
What's HTTP/2?
A newer version of HTTP that's faster and more efficient than HTTP/1.1, with features like multiplexing and server push.