What is HTTPS?

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It is an extension of the standard HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) used for transmitting data between a web browser and a website. The key difference is that HTTPS adds an extra layer of security by encrypting the data being exchanged between the browser and the website.

Some key features of HTTPS:

Encryption
When you visit a website that uses HTTPS, your web browser and the website's server establish a secure connection. This connection is encrypted, which means that any data sent between your browser and the server is scrambled and can only be deciphered by the intended recipient (the server).

The encryption process involves an exchange of "keys" (this exchange is known as a "handshake") between your web browser and the website's server. This handshake tells each other exactly how to decipher the encrypted data passed between them.

Common key lengths used include 128-bit and 256-bit keys. While both offer strong security, a 256-bit key is considered more secure because it provides a larger number of possible key combinations, making it harder to break.

Authentication
HTTPS also involves server authentication. Before your browser establishes a connection, the website's server provides a digital certificate issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). This certificate confirms the server's identity, ensuring that you are connecting to the genuine website and not a malicious imposter.

Data Integrity
HTTPS ensures data integrity by preventing tampering or modification of the data while it's in transit. Any unauthorized changes made to the data will be detected, and the connection will be terminated.

Trust
The use of HTTPS increases trust and confidence in websites, as users can see a padlock icon or a green address bar in their browser, indicating that the connection is secure. This is especially important for websites that handle sensitive information, such as login credentials, personal details, and payment information.

HTTPS is essential for protecting the privacy and security of internet users. It is widely used for online banking, e-commerce websites, social media platforms, and any other sites where secure data transmission is crucial. Browsers also tend to label non-HTTPS websites as "Not Secure" to encourage the adoption of this security standard.


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