HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the foundation of data exchange on the Web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted between web browsers and servers.
Key Aspects of HTTP:
- Client-server protocol
- Stateless communication
- Uses TCP/IP for data transfer
- Supports various methods (GET, POST, etc.)
- Extensible through headers
HTTP Operates Through Request-Response Cycles:
- Client sends a request
- Server processes the request
- Server sends back a response
- Client receives and processes the response
HTTPS is a secure version of HTTP that uses encryption for data protection.