Most internet users don’t pay attention to the URL bar, even when they select the link to copy it to another place.

In fact, when you check the link; you are going to find two formats; (HTTP) and (HTTPS), so what is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?

The answer is here, in this article.

What is HTTP?

HTTP stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol. It is the foundation of the World Wide Web and is also known as a stateless system.

The main function of the hypertext transfer protocol is to load web pages through hypertext links.

The communication between your computer and web servers depends on sending HTTP requests and receiving HTTP responses.

How does HTTP work?

Allow me to make it clear for you.

That is what happens in less than one second when you click on a web page link:

By clicking, you send an HTTP request to the web, and then the web server receives the request.

The web server will run a specific application to process your request, and turn an HTTP response to your browser.

Then your browser will receive the answer to display what you requested to see.

The quicker your connection is, the less time it takes to open the web page.

What is HTTPS?

The word (HTTPS) stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure.

Yes; it is the secured and encrypted version of the HTTP.

The main function of HTTPS is to secure communication across the internet, by using TLS (Transport Layer Security) or SSL which stands for Secure Sockets Layer.

In another word, HTTPS is encrypted to increase the security of the transferred data between your browser, and the website you need to display.

How does HTTPS work?

Every website that requires login, should be encrypted by HTTPS to secure your data, especially those websites that deal with very private information; like your bank account, and your credit card.

Now; Google Chrome and the other modern web browsers are telling you, whether the web page you are browsing is secure, or not.

You can notice a Green or Red padlock in the URL bar. The green one refers to a secure connection, while the red one refers to an insecure connection.

You can also find a label telling you that your connection is (Not secure).

What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?

After what we have said above, you should now know what is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?

In the case of HTTP there is no encrypted data, because HTTP doesn’t pay attention to the way your information travels, and in this case, your information may be in danger.

HTTPS is an advanced level of security, and without HTTPS your information is susceptible, such as your passwords and your credit card information, because they will be sent as plaintext.

HTTPS helps you to ensure cyber safety.

Why is HTTPS important for SEO?

The question that arises now is; do HTTPS and HTTP affect my SEO if I am a website owner?

The answer is definitely: “Yes”.

Google announced since 2014 HTTPS as one of the most important ranking signals.

Google also announced in 2018 that; they will label all the HTTP websites as (not secure).

Here are more benefits of HTTPS to your SEO:

1- safe browsing:

Google provides its users with the best user experience and would like to make your information secure, and away from hackers who are always looking for a new chance to attack websites.

2- Ranking:

Have a look at the websites on the first page of search results. They are HTTPS.

3- AMP Optimization:

AMP stands for Accelerated Mobile Pages, it looks like a thunder symbol.

The AMP Optimization reduces the bounce rate, loading time, and telling that your website is mobile-friendly which enhances your SEO.

Having HTTPS telling Google and users that; your website is secure.

4- Increases trust:

Having a secure website lets people trust your website, so they can make their transactions through your website, and fill in important and private information.

5- More traffic and conversions:

Having a secured website, encrypted by the HTTPS format will increase the traffic of your website, and encourage people to shop through your website, in case you own an e-commerce website.

It’s time to summarize:

HTTP and HTTPS are the same, but HTTPS is the advanced version of HTTP. It encrypts your website, makes your website visitors trust you, and enhances your SEO.