The Internet
It’s safe to say that the internet can be a confusing place. There’s tons of information, technical terms, and convoluted explanations about how things function. One thing however that every web user is familiar with in one way or another is the address bar, and the acronym HTTP that resides just to the left of it. But what does it mean, and better yet, what’s the difference between that and a HTTPS, something you may also come across when surfing the net. Without getting too technical, PowerWiz IT management firm is here to help users understand and distinguish the differences between HTTP and HTTPS, as well as the effects that they may have on the sites you visit, or more importantly the sites you manage.
What is HTTP?
HTTP stands for Hyper Text Transfer Protocol. This enables internet users to transfer information like text, images, music, and other files onto webpages. This simplifies the process of managing and building websites. In addition to this, HTTP enables visitors to access the requested website along with all of its information and content. As helpful as HTTP is in allowing users to traverse the internet, these types of sites can also be susceptible to hacking and tampering by outside sources. For this reason, most websites with a HTTP in front of them are simply in the business of providing content, not requiring the visitor to relinquish any information on their end. When it comes to ensuring that user information remains secure, that’s where HTTPS steps in.
What is HTTPS?
On the other side of the spectrum HTTPS stands for Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure. These sites utilize an encrypted HTTP connection that contains an extra level of security. Sites that are connected to HTTPS are usually those that involve information being shared between the user and the site’s server. Some example of HTTPS sites would be financial institutions like banks and credit cards companies, or sites where personal information is stored like email accounts and online retailers. HTTPS prevents these websites from being hacked by outside sources and user information from being stolen. That said, before providing a website with your personal info be sure that there is a HTTPS along with small green lock in its URL.
In conclusion
The internet can be a confusing place but with this little bit of information, safely jumping from site to site will now be much easier. Now that you know the difference between HTTP and HTTPS, you know what to look out for before providing a website with your information, keeping you more secure in the process. For additional information, don’t forget to follow PowerWiz on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn or contact us today by calling (516) 467-1882.