What Is HTTP vs HTTPS? Tech Terms Explained

You’ve probably seen HTTP or HTTPS at the start of a web address—but what do they mean, and what’s the difference?

These terms play an important role in how information is sent across the internet and how secure that connection is.

In this Tech Terms post, we’ll explain what HTTP and HTTPS are, how they differ, and why it matters when browsing.

What Is HTTP vs HTTPS? (Transcript)

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. It’s the standard method your browser uses to communicate with websites.

HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. The “S” stands for “secure,” meaning the connection uses encryption to protect the data being sent.

For example, when you log in to a website or enter payment information, HTTPS helps keep that data private.

How HTTP Works

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. HTTP allows your browser and a website to exchange information.

When you visit a site using HTTP:

• Information is sent between your device and the website
• The data is not encrypted
• As a result, it could potentially be seen or intercepted

This does not mean every HTTP site is unsafe, but it does mean the connection is less secure.

What Is HTTPS?

HTTPS builds on HTTP by adding encryption. This protects your data while it travels between your device and the website.

Because of this, it is much harder for others to read or intercept your information.

Why HTTPS Matters

When you use a website with HTTPS:

• Your data is encrypted (scrambled)
• Sensitive information, like passwords or credit cards, is protected
• It becomes much harder for others to intercept your data

Therefore, HTTPS is especially important when logging into accounts, shopping online, or entering personal information.

How to Tell If a Website Is Secure

A Simple Example

Imagine sending a message.

HTTP is like sending a postcard that anyone could read along the way, while HTTPS is like sending a sealed envelope that protects the contents.

That’s the difference encryption makes.

How This Connects to Other Tech Terms

HTTP and HTTPS are part of a URL. They appear at the beginning of a web address and tell your browser how to connect to a website.

They also relate to how your browser handles data. For example, your browser may store parts of websites (called cache) to help them load faster later.

Quick Summary

Here’s the short version:

• HTTP is the basic way websites communicate
• HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP
• The “S” means the connection is encrypted
• You should look for HTTPS when entering personal information

See More Tech Terms Explained

For a more technical explanation, you can explore beginner-friendly resources such as Geek for Geeks’ article on the difference between HTTP and HTTPS.

Check out more Tech Terms Explained videos on the SDM YouTube channel to keep learning how the internet works and how to stay safe online.