What is the purpose of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)?

The purpose of HTTP, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is to facilitate web communication. It is the foundational protocol used for transmitting data over the internet, enabling web browsers and servers to communicate with one another. When a user enters a URL in their browser, the browser sends an HTTP request to the server hosting that URL, and the server responds with the requested web page content, which the browser then renders for the user.

This protocol defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, allowing users to navigate from one web page to another seamlessly. It plays a crucial role in the functioning of the web, supporting the exchange of hypertext documents with links, images, videos, and other multimedia content. The clear and standardized structure that HTTP provides is essential for ensuring that different web technologies can work together efficiently for a seamless user experience.