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HTTP and HTTPS
Term Key terms bank Y12 Programming for the Web
Also listed as: HTTP; HTTPS; HTTP / HTTPS
Definition
HTTP Y12 Programming for the Web Term
HyperText Transfer Protocol: the request and response protocol between browser and web server. Port 80. Not encrypted.
Example: http = port 80.
Found in: syllabus, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes.
HTTPS Y12 Programming for the Web Term
HTTP carried over SSL/TLS so data is encrypted and the server is authenticated. Port 443.
Example: https = port 443.
Found in: syllabus, school notes.
Web protocol (port 80) / encrypted version (port 443).
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 Programming for the Web.
Question types it can appear in
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Where it has appeared in the paper
Programming for the Web (Part A, B). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- 2025 HSC Q6 (1 mark): Web protocols Programming for the Web (Part A) · 1 mark
- Sample exam Q2 (1 mark): Protocols Programming for the Web (Part B) · 1 mark
- Sample exam Q13 (3 marks): Protocols Programming for the Web (Part B) · 3 marks
These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.
Other questions that mention it
- Familiarisation Q10 Programming for the Web (Part C) · 4 marks
Study links
- Flashcard: HTTP in Programming for the Web (Year 12) · study that set
- Flashcard: HTTPS in Programming for the Web (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Web protocols and their ports
- Key terms bank entry: HTTP / HTTPS
- Notes: Investigate and describe the function of web protocols and their ports, including HTTP,… (Programming for the Web (Year 12))
- Notes: Web protocols and their ports (Programming for the Web (Year 12))
- Notes: Observe and describe the back-end process used to manage a web request, including the… (Programming for the Web (Year 12))
- Notes: Safe APIs to minimise vulnerabilities (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“HyperText Transfer Protocol: the request and response protocol between browser and web server.” Then apply it: http = port 80.
In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.
Command words used with it
Technique for the question types
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Matching or table: Tick or match each statement to the right column (for example ORM v SQL, SAST v DAST).
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
What the marking guidelines and feedback say
Answers could include: TCP/IP, DNS, FTP/SFTP, SSL/TLS, SMTP/POP3/IMAP, data packets.
Worked answers from the marking guidelines
Sample exam Q2 (1 mark): Protocols (1 mark): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
1: Identifies the correct answer.
Sample answer
A protocol for email transmission
Sample exam Q13 (3 marks): Protocols (3 marks): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
3: Describes the function of protocols in the transfer of data, with reference to a specific web protocol. 2: Describes the function OR provides an example of a web protocol and its use. 1: Some relevant information.
Sample answer
Protocols are important in data transfer as they establish rules for communication between devices connected to a network, such as the internet. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) enables browsers to request web content from servers, which respond with the requested data. The protocol defines the structure of requests and the response so that data transfer can occur.
Common mistakes
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: TCP/IP · FTP and SFTP · SSL/TLS certificate · IMAP, POP3 and SMTP · Port