HTTPS is HTTP protected by Transport Layer Security (TLS). It helps protect data in transit from interception and tampering.

What TLS provides

• Confidentiality: encrypts communication.
• Integrity: helps detect unauthorized modification.
• Authentication: certificates and the handshake help authenticate the server; client authentication is also possible in some configurations.

Simplified flow

• Client connects to the server.
• Server presents a certificate.
• Client validates certificate and hostname.
• The parties negotiate cryptographic parameters and establish session keys.
• HTTP data is exchanged through the protected connection.

Best practices

• Use valid certificates and current TLS configurations.
• Redirect HTTP to HTTPS where appropriate.
• Use Secure cookies for sensitive browser sessions.
• Consider HSTS and avoid mixed content.
• Continue to implement authorization, validation, and secure business logic