
You see it on every reputable website: a little padlock and an address that starts with https://. But what does HTTPS actually do, and why do browsers now warn you when a site doesn’t use it?
This guide explains HTTPS in plain English — what it is, how it works, how it differs from plain HTTP, and why it matters for security, privacy, and even your search rankings.
What Is HTTPS?
HTTPS stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure. It’s the standard HTTP protocol your browser uses to load websites, with one crucial addition: a layer of encryption provided by TLS (Transport Layer Security). The “S” simply means secure.



