✅ HTTP vs HTTPS
| Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
|---|---|---|
| 🔒 Security | ❌ Not secure | ✅ Encrypted using SSL/TLS |
| 🔐 Data Privacy | Data sent in plain text | Data is encrypted (safe from snooping) |
| 🌐 Port | Uses port 80 | Uses port 443 |
| 🔐 URL Prefix | http:// |
https:// |
| 🌍 SEO | ❌ Lower ranking | ✅ Google prefers HTTPS |
| 🔐 Authentication | ❌ No server identity verification | ✅ SSL certificate verifies server identity |
| 🧠 Used For | Testing, internal tools (rare) | Banking, e-commerce, login, APIs (secure) |
🔧 How HTTPS Works (Simplified Flow):
-
Client connects to server via
https://. - Server presents SSL certificate (identity proof).
- A TLS handshake establishes an encrypted connection.
- All data sent is now encrypted (confidential and tamper-proof).
🛡️ Why Use HTTPS Always?
- ✅ Protects user credentials, personal data, and payment info.
- ✅ Builds trust (🔒 padlock in browser).
- ✅ Required for modern browser features (like Service Workers).
- ✅ Helps comply with data protection laws (e.g., GDPR).
💡 Pro Tip:
Use free SSL from Let’s Encrypt, or get one from providers like GoDaddy, DigiCert, etc.