HTTP vs HTTPS

Summary

HTTP is the protocol browsers use to request and receive web pages; HTTPS is the same protocol encrypted with TLS/SSL so data can't be intercepted. HTTPS protects the confidentiality and integrity of traffic and also authenticates the server through a certificate, while plain HTTP sends application data without transport encryption.

• 1Inspect a site's HTTPS certificate in your browser's address bar. Validate your understanding by applying it in a small practical example.
• 2Learn what the TLS handshake does at a high level. Focus on understanding the underlying reason it works, not only memorizing the definition.
• 3Understand why HTTPS is now a hard requirement for SEO and security.