Quick Reference - Protocols Summary

Quick Reference - Protocols Summary

HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol):

• Purpose: Transfer web pages
• Port: 80
• Security: NOT secure (plain text)
• Use: Public information only (being replaced by HTTPS)

HTTPS (HTTP Secure):

• Purpose: Transfer web pages securely
• Port: 443
• Security: Encrypted with SSL/TLS
• Use: Banking, shopping, logins, any sensitive data

FTP (File Transfer Protocol):

• Purpose: Transfer files between computers
• Port: 21 (command), 20 (data)
• Security: NOT secure (being replaced by SFTP)
• Use: Upload website files, file sharing

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol):

• Purpose: SEND emails (not receive)
• Port: 25, 587
• Security: Can be encrypted with TLS
• Receiving: Use POP3 (download) or IMAP (sync)

The Golden Rule:

Different protocols for different purposes! HTTP/HTTPS for web, SMTP for sending email, FTP for files. ALWAYS use secure versions (HTTPS, SFTP, IMAPS) when handling sensitive data!