Hypertext Transfer Protocol

The Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the protocol that governs the exchange of data between a web browser and a web server. It is the basis for most internet applications, especially browsing the World Wide Web. Think of HTTP as a conversation between two people: One asks a question (the browser asks for a web page), the other provides a response (the server delivers the web page). This communication is usually unencrypted.

With HTTPS, this communication is secured by SSL/TLS encryption, which ensures that no one can read or modify the data in transit – like a sealed envelope that can only be opened by the recipient. This is especially important when transmitting sensitive data such as passwords or banking information.

Today's standard: Virtually every modern website uses HTTPS. HTTP without encryption is considered insecure and is sometimes blocked or displayed with warnings by modern browsers.

Classification in the OSI model:

• Application layer (Layer 7)
  HTTP and HTTPS operate at the application layer and are therefore the topmost layer in the OSI model that interacts directly with the user interface.