HTTP (short for Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is an application protocol for distributed, collaborative, and hypermedia information systems. HTTP is the basis of data communication for the WWW (World Wide Web).

The HTTP protocol works on the basis of request ? response in a client ? server. For example, a web browser behaves as a client, while an application running on the computer hosting the web behaves as a server. The client sends an HTTP request in the form of a message to the north. The server, which has stored the content, then returns the message (response) to the client.

HTTP is designed to allow instantaneous connection or enhancement of client-server communication. HTTP itself is an application layer operating within the Internet Protocol Suite.

HTTP resources on the network are identified and recognized by URIs (Uniform Resource Identifiers) or more commonly URLs (Uniform Resource Locators).