What is HTTP?
HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. HTTP protocol allows web browsers to communicate and exchange data. In layman’s terms, when you click on a link, you request connection (HTTP request), your web browser sends this request out to a server, which responds by sending you the desired web page (HTTP response).
HTTP protocol ensures the information reaches the intended destination. However, it is not concerned with how this information travels. HTTP requests and responses are sent across the Internet in plaintext. This means that anyone monitoring that connection has access to this information and can manipulate the data. This becomes an issue when the data sent through the web browser is sensitive such as credit card details and login details.
HTTPS resolves the security issue above!
What is HTTPS?
Have you ever wondered what the padlock icon at the top of your browser represents? This is where HTTPS comes in. In HTTPS, S stands for “secure”. Because HTTPS encrypts HTTP requests and answers with TLS (or SSL), an attacker would see random characters instead of the plaintext seen in HTTP requests and responses. Having an SSL certificate for your website ensures that the connection between the web browser and the website server is encrypted.
What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS request and response?
HTTP vs HTTPS
The definition of both HTTP and HTTPS above has given a better understanding of these protocols. Now let’s dive into the differences between HTTP and HTTPS! The table below(retrieved from: Venafi) shows a summary of the main differences between these two protocols.
Http or HTTPS, Which is better?
From the differences stated above, we are able to understand what happens when we use HTTP instead of HTTPS on our websites. Data sent through HTTPS requests is not encrypted while that with HTTPS is encrypted. The data encryption makes it difficult for attacks to be made on your website. This is enough reason to purchase an SSL certificate for your website, making it less prone to cyber-attacks.
Is HTTPS good for SEO?
One of the factors that contribute to your rankings is the websites security. Using a secure website with HTTPS gains more users trust. Thus, increasing your conversion rate! In conclusion, HTTPS comes with many advantages in terms of performance, website ranking and website security. Users are highly encouraged to trust websites implementing HTTPS. At MyDGTech, we ensure that all the websites developed by our team are secured with an SSL certificate. Opt for our website maintenance service if your website needs an SSL certificate.
