Understanding HTTP: Functions, How it Works, and Benefits

In the internet world, the term HTTP appears very often. When accessing a website, we see HTTP or HTTPS at the beginning of the URL address. However, not everyone understands what HTTP means , its functions and how it works. This article will discuss in depth what HTTP is , its functions, how it works in web applications, the differences between HTTP and HTTPS , and the benefits of using both protocols.

Understanding HTTP

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol . HTTP is a communication protocol used to transfer data on the internet, specifically data from a web server to a user’s browser. In simple terms, HTTP allows a browser to access, display, and send data from one point to another over the internet. When a user enters a website address, the browser sends a request to the server, and the server responds by sending the required data.

HTTP is essentially a stateless protocol , meaning that each HTTP request is self-contained and does not store information about previous requests. This makes the data transfer process faster and more efficient, although sometimes less secure than protocols that use a security system.

History of HTTP

The development of HTTP began in the late 1980s at CERN, where computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee worked. Tim Berners-Lee is the creator of the World Wide Web (WWW), and HTTP is one of the key elements that allows the internet to function as it does today. The first version of HTTP, HTTP/0.9 , was released in 1991 and only supported the GET method for retrieving data.

Then, in 1996, HTTP/1.0 version was introduced with the ability to send more data types and new methods such as POST and HEAD. After that, HTTP/1.1 which was released in 1997 provided various updates including performance improvements and support for better connections. Until now, HTTP continues to be developed to improve security and data delivery speed, including the presence of HTTP/2 and HTTP/3 which provide better performance and security.

HTTP Functions

The function of HTTP is as an intermediary between the user’s browser and the server in the internet network. HTTP allows various forms of communication and data transfer between two devices connected via the internet. Here are some of the main functions of HTTP:

1.    Facilitate Data Communication

HTTP allows data exchange between the client (user’s browser) and the server. With HTTP, users can access various types of data on the internet, such as text, images, videos, and more.

2.    Handling Requests and Responses

HTTP plays a vital role in managing requests and responses between clients and servers. When a user types in a website address, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server, and the server responds with the requested data.

3.    Providing Structure for Web Access

HTTP also serves as a standard communication structure for web services, allowing websites to send and receive data from various sources on the internet.

How HTTP Works In Web Applications And Protocols

In its implementation, the way HTTP works involves web applications and protocols that work together to provide a smooth access experience to users. Here is a brief explanation of how HTTP works on web applications and protocols:

1. Web Applications and Browsers

In web applications, HTTP is used as a communication medium between the user’s browser and the web server. When a user enters a web address or clicks on a link, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server, then the server processes the request and responds with the data requested by the browser. The browser then displays the data to the user in the form of a web page.

2. Protocol

The HTTP protocol is designed to regulate the procedures for data communication on the internet, allowing data such as text, images, and videos to be sent from the server to the client. The HTTP protocol regulates the message format between the server and the client, such as the GET, POST, DELETE methods, and others. Each method has a specific function in accessing and managing data requested by the user.

Difference between HTTP and HTTPS

Although HTTP and HTTPS both serve to transfer data, they have fundamental differences, especially when it comes to security. Here are some of the key differences between HTTP and HTTPS:

1. Data Transmission Security Level

The main difference between HTTP and HTTPS lies in the level of security. HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is a secure version of HTTP that uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption to secure data sent between the client and server. This makes HTTPS more secure, especially when the data being sent is sensitive, such as passwords or credit card information.

2. Port Used

Another difference between HTTP and HTTPS is the port used. HTTP uses port 80 , while HTTPS uses port 443 . This difference allows the server to distinguish the type of communication being performed, whether the data will be sent securely or not.

Benefits of HTTP or HTTPS

Using HTTP or HTTPS has many benefits, both for users and web service providers. Here are some of the main benefits of using the HTTP and HTTPS protocols:

1. More Trusted by Users and Web Browsers

HTTPS makes a website more trustworthy to users and browsers. Sites that use HTTPS are often marked with a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar, indicating that the site is secure. Users are more likely to feel comfortable and safe when accessing a website that uses HTTPS.

2. Website Communication Security Becomes More Guaranteed

With HTTPS, communication between the user’s browser and the server will be more secure. The data sent will be encrypted, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to access. This is especially important for websites that deal with sensitive data, such as e-commerce sites, banking, and other financial services.

3. Website Authentication

HTTPS also enables website authentication, ensuring that users are accessing the real site and not one that has been spoofed by a third party. This authentication process is done through SSL or TLS digital certificates, issued by trusted certification authorities.

Conclusion

Overall, HTTP and HTTPS are the main protocols used to transfer data on the internet, with functions and ways of working that support smooth web access for users. HTTP is a protocol that allows communication between clients and servers over the internet, while HTTPS offers an additional layer of security through data encryption.

By using HTTP or HTTPS, websites can provide fast and secure services to their users. However, it is important to note that while HTTP is still used on many sites, HTTPS has become the standard for websites that prioritize security. Using HTTPS not only provides security for users, but also provides more trust in interacting and transacting on the internet.

References: niagahoster.co.id , jagoanhosting.com , gramedia.com .

Author: Yazid Yusuf – Directorate of Information Technology Center