HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, which is a protocol for securing the communication between two systems, such as a browser and a web server. It is the secure version of HTTP, which is the primary protocol used to send data between a web browser and a website. HTTPS encrypts the data entered into a users device to safely deliver it to the website they are interacting with, and it also encrypts data going from the website to the browser.
HTTPS adds encryption, authentication, and integrity to the HTTP protocol. It uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to encrypt the communication protocol, which is why it is also referred to as HTTP over TLS or HTTP over SSL. The security of HTTPS is that of the underlying TLS, which typically uses adequate cipher suites and verifies and trusts the server certificate to ensure reasonable protection from eavesdroppers and man-in-the-middle attacks.
HTTPS is important for securing online activities such as shopping, banking, and remote work, as it makes it possible for website users to transmit sensitive data such as credit card numbers, banking information, and login credentials securely over the internet. However, HTTPS is quickly becoming the standard protocol for all websites, whether or not they exchange sensitive data with users.
In summary, HTTPS is a protocol that adds encryption, authentication, and integrity to the HTTP protocol, making it possible for website users to transmit sensitive data securely over the internet.
