# What is HTTP Protocol? A Complete Guide for Beginners
**HTTP** stands for **Hypertext Transfer Protocol**, the foundation of data communication on the World Wide Web. It allows web browsers and servers to exchange information, enabling you to view websites, submit forms, and stream videos.
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## **How HTTP Works: A Simple Breakdown**
When you type a URL into your browser, an HTTP request is sent to the server hosting the website. The server processes the request and returns an HTTP response, which includes the webpage content. This request-response cycle happens almost instantly every time you browse the internet.
### **HTTP Methods Explained**
Common HTTP methods include:
– **GET**: Retrieves data from the server.
– **POST**: Sends data to the server (e.g., form submissions).
– **PUT**: Updates existing data.
– **DELETE**: Removes data.
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## **HTTP vs. HTTPS: What’s the Difference?**
While HTTP transfers data in plain text, **HTTPS (HTTP Secure)** encrypts the connection using SSL/TLS protocols. This ensures privacy and security, especially for sensitive transactions like online payments.
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## **Frequently Asked Questions**
### **Is HTTP still used today?**
Yes, HTTP is widely used, but HTTPS has become the standard for secure websites. Major browsers now flag HTTP sites as “not secure.”
### **What are HTTP status codes?**
These codes indicate the result of an HTTP request. Common examples include:
– **200 OK**: Successful request.
– **404 Not Found**: The requested resource doesn’t exist.
– **500 Internal Server Error**: The server encountered an issue.
### **Why is understanding what is http protocol important for beginners?**
Knowing how HTTP works helps you grasp web development, API interactions, and cybersecurity basics. For a deeper dive, check out this detailed guide on what is http protocol.
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## **Ready to Learn More?**
Mastering HTTP is your first step toward web development or IT expertise. **Explore our tutorials** to deepen your understanding of web protocols and build secure applications!