What is the Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS? Here’s the Explanation
It seems that you often notice that the prefix HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) or HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is always displayed in the browser’s address bar column. It turns out that this prefix plays an important role in the distribution of data on the page being viewed. A website has been verified as safe if the https:// symbol appears after the website address. However, if the website is accompanied by the statement “Not Secure”, then the website still uses the standard protocol in the form of Hypertext Transfer Protocol which is not guaranteed to be secure. Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) play a vital role in maintaining the security of data as it is transferred between the server and the client. HTTP is the standard protocol used to transfer data, but its security weaknesses make it vulnerable to data hacker attacks. On the other hand, HTTPS, which is the secure version of HTTP, offers an additional layer of security by encrypting the data being transferred, thereby reducing the risk of data leakage or misuse. By using HTTPS, the security of data as it moves between the client and the server can be better maintained.
Understanding HTTP and HTTPS
An application network protocol called Hypertext Transfer Protocol is used to transfer data between the server and the client. This particular server is a type of web server that resembles a physical computer network and has a fairly large data storage capacity. The web browser, which has the ability to access, receive, and display web content, then plays the role of the client.
On the other hand, Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure is the result of the development of the previous version of the protocol. It offers stronger security features to ensure users feel safe when accessing various online information. This Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure protocol was developed directly by IT-based company Netscape Communication Corp.
Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure encrypts any data transferred outside the server during operation. This ensures that only the recipient has access or knowledge of the material. However, this approach cannot guarantee that data will not leak during transit and that the information will reach its destination safely thanks to Hypertext Transfer Protocol. However, websites without encryption techniques pose significant security risks, especially when it comes to possible malware or virus attacks.
Difference between HTTP and HTTPS
- Port Usage Port usage is the main difference between Hypertext Transfer Protocol and Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. The port is a logical port; it is not visible or tactile. The ability to connect devices through another protocol or medium is one of the functions of a port. Logical ports come in various forms. The port used in Hypertext Transfer Protocol is type 80. This type of port is used for client and web server connectivity. Meanwhile, network connectivity through port 443 is required to access Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure over SSL.
- Data Security In addition, security between the client and the server cannot be guaranteed with data transferred via Hypertext Transfer Protocol. This is the root of many criminal problems, including data hackers. Spreading data to unknown people has a high danger. On the other hand, there is a cooperative protocol for the security of data sent if you use Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. Web developers widely use Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure because of this.
- SSL The third difference is that the idea of Hypertext Transfer Protocol is always used in the communication protocol between the client and the server. To use Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol, you must have a Secure Socket Layers, or SSL, certificate. Web developers have six different forms of SSL to choose from. When a website uses SSL, a padlock symbol will appear in the URL address bar, giving users confidence that the site is safe to use for important transactions or data transmissions. SSL is very good at protecting sensitive information, such as passwords, PINs, personal identification, and so on.
- Loading Speed Using Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure can speed up the loading of your website if it is hosted on a server that supports Hypertext Transfer Protocol/2. By reducing latency and resource usage, such as bandwidth, the Hypertext Transfer Protocol/2 protocol can support Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, resulting in a faster website.
- Advantages of Using a Website that uses Hypertext Transfer Protocol that displays an unlocked padlock icon indicates an unsafe website. In fact, sometimes users are taken to another page or even have difficulty opening the internet page. However, browser explorers will feel more comfortable when visiting a web server that uses the Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure protocol. Entering sensitive information no longer makes visitors nervous.