Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
HTTP is an application protocol that enables communication between clients (such as web browsers) and servers over the internet. It defines how requests from clients are made and how responses from servers are formatted.
Related terms
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): HTTPS is an extension of HTTP that adds encryption and security measures to ensure secure communication between clients and servers.
GET Request: A GET request is an HTTP method used by clients to retrieve data from servers. It typically involves sending parameters in the URL itself.
POST Request: A POST request is an HTTP method used by clients to send data to servers. It is commonly used for submitting forms or uploading files.
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