What is HTTP Protocol: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
# What is HTTP Protocol: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
**HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)** is the foundation of data communication on the World Wide Web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, enabling interactions between clients (like web browsers) and servers.
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## **How HTTP Works: Request-Response Model**
When you enter a URL, your browser sends an **HTTP request** to the server. The server processes this and returns an **HTTP response** with the requested resource (e.g., a webpage).
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### **Key Components of HTTP**
– **Methods**: GET (retrieve data), POST (send data), PUT (update), DELETE (remove).
– **Status Codes**: 200 (OK), 404 (Not Found), 500 (Server Error).
– **Headers**: Carry metadata (e.g., content type, cookies).
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## **HTTP vs. HTTPS**
While HTTP sends data in plain text, **HTTPS (HTTP Secure)** encrypts communication using SSL/TLS, enhancing security for sensitive transactions.
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### **Common Applications**
– Loading websites.
– API communications.
– File transfers.
For a deeper dive, explore this detailed resource on what is HTTP protocol.
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## **FAQs**
**Q: Is HTTP still used today?**
A: Yes, though HTTPS is preferred for security.
**Q: Can HTTP handle video streaming?**
A: Yes, via adaptive streaming protocols like HLS.
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