This key facts covers HTTP - HyperText Transfer Protocol within Protocols for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Protocols in Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 3 of 10 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 3 of 10
Practice
15 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
HTTP - HyperText Transfer Protocol
What is HTTP?
The protocol used for transmitting web pages across the Internet. When you type a URL in your browser, HTTP defines how your browser requests the page and how the web server responds.
How HTTP Works:
- Request-Response model: Client (browser) sends request, server sends response
- HTTP Request: "GET /index.html" - browser asks server for specific page
- HTTP Response: Server sends HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images
- Stateless: Each request is independent - server doesn't remember previous requests
- Port: Uses port 80 by default
HTTP Methods:
- GET: Request data from server (e.g., load webpage)
- POST: Send data to server (e.g., submit form, login)
- PUT: Update existing data on server
- DELETE: Remove data from server
HTTP Example Flow:
1. You type www.bbc.co.uk in browser
2. Browser sends: GET /index.html HTTP/1.1
3. Server responds: HTTP/1.1 200 OK
4. Server sends HTML page
5. Browser displays webpage
HTTP Limitations:
- NOT secure: Data transmitted in plain text
- Can be intercepted: Anyone on network can read HTTP traffic
- No encryption: Passwords, credit cards sent openly
- Vulnerable: Man-in-the-middle attacks possible