HTTP/HTTPS

← All terms · Misc tech terms

Also called Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure

The foundational communication protocol used to transmit data securely across the internet between a web browser and a server.

What it is

HTTP establishes the rules for how messages are formatted and transmitted across the web. The "S" in HTTPS stands for "Secure," meaning the data is heavily encrypted using TLS/SSL before transmission. This prevents attackers from intercepting or reading sensitive information (like passwords) as data travels across global networks.

When you would use it

You rely on HTTPS protocols whenever your application communicates over the internet, ensuring all data in transit remains encrypted and secure.

Common operations

• Loading a secure webpage in a browser.
• Transmitting encrypted JSON payloads from a frontend app to an API.

Related terms

• API
• REST
• WebSocket

Where this is taught

• API traffic and authentication basics