What is HTTP and HTTPS? Security Basics of the Internet
When you visit websites, usually in the address bar of your browser HTTP or HTTPS You’ll see their expressions. This two terms express the communication protocol used to exchange data to a website. So, what does these terms mean and what are the differences between them?
What Is HTTP?
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is a protocol that provides data exchange between a browser and the server. It is used to transmit text, images and other content on the web pages to the user.
- How it Works? The HTTP works with a client-server model. The browser (e.g. a request to a server and the server sends the requested data (e.g. a web page) to the browser.
- Security Connection: HTTP is a non-secure protocol. Data exchange between the client and the server takes place without being encrypted. This is the risk when it is sent especially sensitive information (passwords, credit card information).
What Is HTTPS?
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure is the secure version of the HTTP. The data in this protocol is transmitted encryptedly. The HTTPS has become standard in the web sites (banking, e-commerce, social media, especially requiring security.
- How it Works? HTTPS works with SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security). These technologies provide data security by encrypting communication between client and server.
- Safety Advantage: HTTPS prevents third parties (e.g. hackers) from accessing data transmitted or stealing this data. It is usually shown with a lock icon in browsers, which indicates that the site is reliable.
Differences Between HTTP and HTTPS
| Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Security | The data is not encrypted, risky. | The data is encrypted, safe. |
| Usage Area | Suitable for simple information sharing. | It is necessary for precise information transmission. |
| Speed | Can be faster. | Due to encryption, it can be slightly slower. |
| SSL/TLS Certificate | Gerektirmez. | Zorunludur. |
| Browser Sign | The warning "not safe" may appear. | There is a lock icon on the address bar. |
Why Should HTTPS Be Used?
- Security: Data is encrypted and privacy is provided.
- SEO Advantage: Google places sites using HTTPS to top rows.
- User Trust: HTTPS allows users to trust the site.
- Yasal Gereklilik: In some countries, user data protection laws (GDPR etc.) enforces HTTPS usage.
How to Switch from HTTP to HTTPS?
- Buy an SSL/TLS certificate or use a free solution (e.g. Let’s Encrypt).
- Upload the certificate from the control panel of your hosting provider.
- Provide your website to HTTPS from HTTP (301 redirect).
- Define HTTPS on Google Search Console and other SEO tools.
Netbudur As we offer SSL certificate service to secure your website. You can also contact us to provide a secure experience to your users!