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HTTP

Last updated on Friday, April 26, 2024.

 

Definition:

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HTTP, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is the foundation of communication on the World Wide Web. It is an application layer protocol that enables the transfer of data between a web server and a web browser, allowing for the retrieval and display of web pages to users.

The Concept of HTTP

HTTP, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is the underlying protocol used for distributing information on the internet. It is the foundation for data communication in the World Wide Web.

What is HTTP?

HTTP is a set of rules for exchanging text, images, sound, video, and other multimedia files on the web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, as well as the actions web servers and browsers should take in response to various commands.

How Does HTTP Work?

HTTP operates as a request-response protocol in the client-server computing model. When you type a web address into your browser and hit enter, your browser sends an HTTP request to the server hosting the website. The server then responds with the requested resources, usually in the form of an HTML page, which your browser interprets and displays to you.

Key Features of HTTP:

Stateless: HTTP is stateless, meaning each request from a browser to the server is treated independently, without any knowledge of previous requests.

Text-Based: HTTP messages are human-readable, facilitating debugging and troubleshooting.

Connectionless: HTTP uses a connectionless protocol, which means that the connection between the client and server is closed after each request.

Evolution of HTTP:

Over the years, HTTP has evolved through several versions, with HTTP/1.1 being the most widely used until the introduction of HTTP/2. The latest version, HTTP/3, aims to provide even faster and more secure communication by using UDP instead of TCP for data transmission.

Understanding HTTP is crucial for anyone involved in web development, as it forms the backbone of how data is exchanged over the internet. Stay tuned for further updates on the latest developments in HTTP and other protocols within the field of computer science.

 

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