Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS
Last updated: March 31, 2026
Quick Answer: HTTP sends data in plain text — anyone intercepting can read it. HTTPS adds TLS/SSL encryption, making data unreadable to anyone except the intended recipient. The S stands for Secure.
Key Facts
- Google Chrome marks all HTTP sites as Not Secure since 2018
- Over 95% of web traffic in Chrome uses HTTPS
- Free HTTPS certificates are available from Let's Encrypt
- HTTPS is an SEO ranking signal
- HTTPS uses port 443; HTTP uses port 80
Overview
HTTP was designed in 1989 for transferring web pages. It sends everything in plain text — passwords, credit cards, everything. HTTPS wraps HTTP in encryption, solving this security flaw.
How HTTPS Works
A TLS handshake: (1) Browser requests server's SSL certificate, (2) Verifies it's valid, (3) Both agree on encryption key, (4) All data encrypted. Happens in milliseconds.
Why HTTPS Matters
- Privacy: Prevents eavesdropping on passwords and payments
- Integrity: Prevents data modification in transit
- Authentication: Confirms you're on the real website
- SEO: Google ranking factor
| Feature | HTTP | HTTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | None | TLS/SSL |
| Port | 80 | 443 |
| Speed | Slightly faster | Negligible difference |
| Certificate | Not needed | Required (free from Let's Encrypt) |
| SEO | Marked "Not Secure" | Minor ranking boost |
| Data safety | Can be intercepted | Encrypted end-to-end |
Sources
- Wikipedia — HTTPS CC-BY-SA-4.0