What Is the Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS

· Category: Tech Fundamentals

Short answer

HTTPS is HTTP with encryption. It protects data in transit between the browser and server using TLS.

Key differences

  • Security: HTTPS encrypts data; HTTP sends it in plain text.
  • Port: HTTP uses port 80; HTTPS uses port 443.
  • Certificates: HTTPS requires a valid TLS certificate.
  • SEO: Search engines rank HTTPS sites higher.

When to use each

  • Always use HTTPS for production sites.
  • HTTP is acceptable only for local development or legacy internal systems.