HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is a protocol used to transfer data between a web server and a browser. It defines how requests are sent from the client and how responses are returned from the server.
It is one of the fundamental protocols used to deliver websites over the internet.
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How HTTP works
When a user opens a website, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server. The server processes the request and returns a response, which usually contains the website content (HTML, images, scripts, or data).
The communication follows a simple request–response model:
- The browser sends a request (for example, a page or file)
- The server processes it
- The server returns a response with the requested content
HTTP structure
An HTTP message typically includes:
- request method (e.g. GET, POST)
- headers (metadata about the request or response)
- body (optional data being sent or received)
Common HTTP methods
- GET – retrieves data from the server
- POST – sends data to the server
- PUT – updates existing data
- DELETE – removes data
Practical use cases
HTTP is used in:
- loading websites in a browser
- submitting forms on web pages
- transferring data between applications and APIs
- accessing web-based services
Practical implications
HTTP does not encrypt data during transmission. This means information sent over HTTP can be intercepted or read by third parties.
For secure communication, HTTPS is used instead, which adds encryption through SSL/TLS.
Summary
HTTP is the basic protocol used for communication between browsers and web servers. It enables the loading and interaction with websites using a structured request–response system.