Hypertext Transfer Protocol
HTTP governs requests and responses between client and server. The method, status and content must fit the agreed application behaviour.
What does HTTP mean?
The Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is an application protocol for exchanging requests and responses. RFC9110 defines their common meaning across several HTTP versions. MDN explains methods, headers, status codes and message content. HTTP is used for websites as well as application interfaces.
Example: retrieving a project list
In a fictional portal, the browser requests a project list from the server. The server checks access and returns a response with a status and content. The client must interpret that response according to the agreed interface format, rather than treating an established connection as success.
HTTP does not decide by itself which projects a person may see. The application must enforce that rule. A status code must accurately describe the actual outcome.
HTTPS denotes HTTP over a protected connection. The HTTP version describes the protocol variant; these matters should be kept separate during planning and troubleshooting.
Sources
Related terms
- HTTPSHTTPS protects HTTP communication using TLS. Protected transport alone does not establish correct form processing or a user’s access rights.
- HTTP/2HTTP/2 carries several HTTP exchanges on one TCP connection. Potential efficiency gains do not replace measuring actual page and server performance.
- HTTP/3HTTP/3 carries HTTP over QUIC. Benefits and reachability also depend on the network and endpoints; a universal speed improvement is not established.
- Return-PathReturn-Path records the SMTP reverse path in a header. It explains the technical route for error reports, not a person’s identity.
- Envelope-FromEnvelope-From identifies the SMTP sender for transport and error feedback. It must be distinguished from the visible sender address.
- DMARC aggregate reportA DMARC aggregate report summarises a reporting mail system’s domain checks over a period. It helps examine sending sources and misconfigurations.
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