HTTP stands for “Hypertext Transfer Protocol” and describes a protocol that is used to transfer data in networks. It ensures the transfer of hypertext documents, which enables access to websites and their content. This means that the requested data is loaded and displayed by the client.
HTTP is characterized by statelessness, i.e. each request and response in the HTTP protocol is independent of each other. HTTP is also a text-based protocol, which means that requests and responses are transmitted in plain text. This prevents communication problems. HTTP can be based on both persistent and non-persistent connections. With persistent connections, several requests are transmitted on the same connection in order to increase efficiency. With non-persistent connections, on the other hand, a new connection is established for each request.
HTTP has developed several versions over time. HTTP 1.1 and HTTP/2 are the most widely used. HTTP/2 includes improvements in the areas of speed and efficiency through parallel data transfer. HTTP is unencrypted without additional security measures such as HTTPS (HTTP Secure). This means that transmitted data can potentially be intercepted by third parties. HTTPS is therefore recommended in sensitive applications, especially when transferring personal or financial information.