What is HTTPS? – Exploring the Standard Web Communication Protocol

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Keeping your online presence secure is non-negotiable. You've probably noticed the 'HTTPS ' prefix on URLs and wondered what it is. It's not just a random string of letters - it's a security protocol that protects your data from cyber thieves, especially when you're sharing sensitive information.

Want to know what HTTPS is? How it works and how to implement it on your website? Then you are in the right place.

Table of contents

What is HTTPS?
What is HTTPS used for?
Why is HTTPS important?
How does HTTPS work?
How to enable HTTPS on your website?
What is HTTPS?
HTTPS is a protocol for secure communication over a computer network on the Internet. It ensures that data transmitted between web browsers and web servers remains encrypted.

When you see a lock icon in your browser's address bar or a site loads without any security warnings, you are accessing the site's server over an HTTPS connection, giving you an extra layer of security for your online activities.

What does HTTPS mean?
HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure and is an extension of the HTTP protocol .
Now let's see what each letter in HTTP stands for:

HT stands for “Hypertext ” and refers to structured text that contains links that allow users to navigate between web pages.
T stands for “ Transfer ” and refers to the movement mobile app development service or transfer of data between your web browser and the web server hosting the site.
P stands for “protocol .” A protocol is a set of rules and standards that define how data is exchanged and transmitted over a network. In this case, it governs the exchange of data between your browser and the web server.
When you use a site with HTTPS, your browser establishes a secure, encrypted connection to the site. This connection ensures that no third party can view, change, or intercept your data while it is being transported.




What does the S in HTTPS mean?
The “S ” stands for “Secure ,” indicating that this protocol is more secure than HTTP. 'Secure' means that your information is encrypted before transmission.

Thanks to this encryption, even if someone manages to intercept the data, they will not be able to understand it. It is like sending secret notes in a language that only you and the recipient understand.

Once it leaves your device, it turns into an unintelligible jumble of characters.
Once it reaches its destination, it is decoded back into understandable information. This robust system protects sensitive data, making HTTPS a key player in internet security.

What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
HTTP and HTTPS are protocols used to transmit data over the Internet. The crucial difference is the letter “S ”, which stands for “ secure ”. When comparing HTTP and HTTPS encryption, HTTP transmits data in clear text, making it vulnerable to eavesdropping or theft.

On the other hand, HTTPS encrypts data before sending it, making it unreadable to anyone except the intended recipient. This encryption adds a layer of security that protects sensitive information , such as credit card numbers or personal information.