The main differences between HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) lie in their security and data integrity features:

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

1. Security: HTTP does not encrypt data transmitted between the web browser and the website. This makes it vulnerable to interception by attackers, compromising user privacy and data integrity.
2. Data Integrity: HTTP does not provide mechanisms to ensure that the data received from the server has not been tampered with during transmission. This lack of integrity checking leaves data susceptible to modification by malicious parties.
3. URL: URLs in HTTP begin with “http://” and communicate over port 80 by default. They are suitable for websites where security is less of a concern, such as informational sites with no sensitive user data.

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)

1. Encryption: HTTPS encrypts data using SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) protocols, ensuring that information exchanged between the browser and server remains private and secure against eavesdropping.
2. Data Integrity: HTTPS includes mechanisms, like digital certificates and cryptographic protocols, to verify that the data received from the server is authentic and has not been altered during transit.
3. URL: URLs in HTTPS begin with “https://” and communicate over port 443 by default. They are used for secure transactions, such as online banking, e-commerce, and any site handling sensitive information like login credentials or payment details.

In summary, HTTPS provides secure communication over the internet by encrypting data and ensuring its integrity, whereas HTTP lacks these security features, making it vulnerable to various types of cyber attacks. Transitioning from HTTP to HTTPS is crucial for protecting user data and maintaining trust in online interactions.