HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) are both protocols used for transmitting data over the internet. The main difference between HTTP and HTTPS lies in the security measures they provide.
HTTP:
HTTP is the standard protocol used for transmitting data between a web browser and a web server. It operates over port 80 and sends data in plain text format. This means that any information sent using HTTP, including usernames, passwords, and other sensitive data, can be intercepted and read by third parties. HTTP does not provide encryption or authentication, making it vulnerable to various security risks, such as eavesdropping and data tampering.
HTTPS:
HTTPS is an extension of HTTP that adds an extra layer of security. It uses SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) protocols to encrypt the data transmitted between a web browser and a web server. This encryption protects the data from being intercepted and read by unauthorized entities. HTTPS operates over port 443 and uses digital certificates to authenticate the identity of the website, ensuring that the data is transmitted securely to the intended recipient.
The use of HTTPS provides several benefits:
a) Data confidentiality:
HTTPS encrypts the data exchanged between the browser and the server, preventing eavesdroppers from understanding the information being transmitted.
b) Data integrity:
HTTPS uses cryptographic algorithms to ensure that the data remains unchanged during transmission. It protects against data tampering by verifying that the received data is identical to the data sent by the server.
c) Authentication and trust:
HTTPS uses digital certificates issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs) to authenticate the identity of the website. This helps users trust that they are communicating with the intended server and not an imposter.
d) SEO advantages:
Search engines like Google prioritize websites using HTTPS in search results. Migrating to HTTPS can improve a website's visibility and ranking.
In summary, while HTTP transmits data in plain text, making it insecure, HTTPS provides encryption, data integrity, authentication, and trust. It is the recommended protocol for transmitting sensitive information over the internet, such as financial transactions, personal data, and login credentials.