You're probably familiar with the https and http portions of a URL. It's the first part of a URL before the FQDN, as in https://www.lifewire.com. You've probably noticed that some websites use HTTPS, while others use HTTP.

HTTP and HTTPS both provide a channel for data to be sent between your device and a web server, allowing normal web browser functions to occur.

The difference between HTTP and HTTPS is the s at the end of the latter. Although they are only distinguished by one letter, it is however indicative of a huge difference in how they work at their core. In short, HTTPS is more secure and should always be used when transferring secure data, such as logging into your bank’s website, writing emails, sending files, etc.

So, what do HTTPS and HTTP mean? Are they really that different? Keep reading to learn more about these concepts, including what role they play in using the web and why one is much better than the other.