HTTPS, by default, uses TCP port 443.
Understanding HTTPS and Ports
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP, used for secure communication over a computer network. It is crucial for protecting data transmitted between a web server and a browser. Part of establishing this connection involves using specific ports. A port is a communication endpoint, and the well-known port for HTTPS is 443. According to reference material: by default, HTTPS connections use TCP port 443. HTTP, the unsecure protocol, uses port 80.30-Dec-2022
TCP vs. UDP
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): A connection-oriented protocol. This means a connection is established before data is sent, ensuring reliable data delivery. It guarantees that data packets arrive in the correct order and that any lost packets are retransmitted.
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol): A connectionless protocol. It sends data packets without establishing a connection, making it faster but less reliable than TCP.
HTTPS and TCP 443
HTTPS relies on the reliability of TCP to ensure that encrypted data is transmitted correctly.
| Protocol | Port | Transport Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| HTTP | 80 | TCP |
| HTTPS | 443 | TCP |
Example: When you access a website with HTTPS, your browser establishes a TCP connection to the server on port 443. This secure connection ensures that all data exchanged, such as login credentials or financial information, is encrypted and protected from eavesdropping.
