What is HTTPS and Why It’s Important?

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol and the ‘S’ in it means ‘secure’. HTTPS is the standard protocol for secure communications over computer networks. Data sent over HTTPS is encrypted using the Transport Layer Security (TSL), which is the next level of evolution over Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).

The earlier communication protocol was HTTP, which transferred data in plain text. This left a huge security gap, as hackers connected to the same network could easily access the data being shared. Another problem with HTTP was that it could not properly verify if the right website was being accessed by the user. As more of private data was digitized, the need was felt for a secure communication platform for computer networks. This eventually led to the development of HTTPS. It was created in 1994 by Netscape Communications.

Why HTTPS is important

HTTPS is necessary for ensuring security of data transferred on computer networks. One of the most important benefits of HTTPS is that it authenticates the website you are visiting. For example, if you are accessing your bank’s website, the HTTPS in front of the link ensures that you are accessing the bank’s website and not some other fake website created by hackers. Similarly, HTTPS protects other websites such as your email, where passwords are required and private information may be stored. Another great thing about HTTPS is that it encrypts all data that you share on the web. It thus reduces the risk of your online activities and data being accessed by hackers.

HTTPS has become a standard

HTTPS was originally developed for specific websites such as banks, e-commerce, email providers, etc. However, with rising cases of cybercrime, HTTPS is now being implemented across all types of websites. As a matter of fact, domain space service providers now have HTTPS as a default feature for all their customers. Awareness about HTTPS is also increasing and users nowadays don’t like visiting sites that are just HTTP. Users have become skeptical about sharing their passwords, credit card details, etc. on sites that do not have HTTPS. This is the reason why HTTPS is being deployed by all types of websites.

If you want your data, activities and private information to be safe, make sure you check the HTTPS before you transactonline or enter information on a website. HTTPS can also be identified with the Lock sign that websites use to display their secure status. HTTPS is the first level of security on the World Wide Web and you should always check it before doing anything else on a website. You should avoid entering private information on sites that just have HTTP.