This article is part of a series aimed at assisting novice developers in grasping fundamental concepts related to WordPress. Focusing on HTTP, including its secure counterpart, the post aims to elucidate the distinctions between the two and underscore their significance in the development of WordPress websites.
What’s the Difference?
HTTP
Let’s begin with HTTP, short for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. It functions as a system for transmitting and receiving data across the internet, employing a set of rules for proper conduct and procedures. In this context, “protocol” refers to a defined system of rules, disregarding other definitions in various fields.
HTTP operates as a request/response mechanism followed by all internet agents, facilitating the swift exchange of data between servers/nodes and clients. While commonly used for accessing HTML pages on the web, HTTP is versatile and applicable to various tasks.
HTTPS
Now, when it comes to handling confidential or sensitive information between server and client, HTTPS steps in. Introduced by Netscape in 1994 for its Navigator browser, HTTPS, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is essentially the secure version of HTTP. It shares many fundamental protocols with HTTP, as both involve the client (e.g., web browser) establishing a connection to a server on a standard port. The key difference lies in the added “S” at the end of HTTPS, indicating a focus on security. This signifies that HTTPS operates with an encrypted connection, ensuring a secure exchange of information.
Delving further into the topic.
The default port for HTTP is 80, whereas for HTTPS, it’s 443. Ports act as designated locations or entry points for data, analogous to boat docks. Each port has a unique number, and data is directed to the appropriate one based on established rules. In the case of HTTPS, the encrypted nature of connections ensures that only the client and server involved in the communication can access the transmitted data. Encryption involves encoding messages to make them comprehensible only to the communicating parties, akin to a secret language but applied to data rather than verbal tones.
Two encryption layers are utilized: TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). While SSL is likely familiar, TLS might be less so. When responding to an HTTPS connection request, the server presents a list of supported encryption methods. The client/browser selects one, initiating the information exchange. Agreement on the encryption method is essential for a synchronized process. During this phase, certificates are exchanged to establish each party’s identity, akin to passports or driver’s licenses.
Both parties ensure the use of the same key and close the connection to prevent unauthorized access. The flow of information commences between them. A server requires a public key certificate for HTTPS connections, containing key details and verification of the owner’s identity. Certificates are often issued or verified by a trusted third party, emphasizing the importance of obtaining SSL certificates from reputable sources like Comodo rather than creating one independently.
Why does it Matter?
In recent years, the significance of HTTPS has markedly increased. Major search engines, including Google, now incorporate HTTPS as a ranking parameter, favoring secure websites in search result rankings. Furthermore, contemporary web browsers issue warnings for non-secure HTTP sites, potentially undermining user trust and interaction. Consequently, it has become imperative for all websites, irrespective of the nature of data transmission, to embrace HTTPS for enhanced security, privacy, and a favorable user experience.
