HTTPS unlike HTTP are encrypted by use of a secure socket layer (SSL) this enables the encryption as well as decryption of user page requests. This makes them more secure as they curb against eavesdropping attacks.
Disadvantages of HTTPS
First because SSL operates below HTTP, hence it has no knowledge of high-level protocols, this implies that SSL can only present one certificate for a port combination. This makes it less feasible to use name-based virtual hosting with HTTPS.
Secondly since SSL does not prevent from being indexed by search engine (crawler) this still allows attackers to have access to public static content such as plain text as well as encrypted text making a connection susceptible to a cryptographic attack.
How HTTPS is different from HTTP?
One difference between HTTPS and HTTP is that HTTPS URLs always start with ‘https://’ and use port 443 as its default whereas HTTP URLs start with ‘http://’ and use port 80 by default. Secondly unlike the fact that HTTPS is secures by use of SSL connection HTTP is not.
How a server must be set up for HTTPS transactions
For a server to be carry out HTTPS transmission they must first offer a list of encryptions methods that it supports so as to allow a client the option of selecting a given connection. Also in order for a server to host HTTPS connections it must have a public key that embeds information with a verification of the keys owner identity.
How HTTPS would protect a public Wi-Fi connection at a local coffee shop
A WI-FI connection can be protected by use of VPN (Virtual private network) which allows for a single SSL connection to a Web site so the end user can securely access multiple network services.
Should all Web traffic be required to use HTTPS? Why or why not?
Yes I recommend the use of HTTPS on all web traffic. Because HTTPS are more secure hence they guarantee the protection of web data from external intrusion.
Works cited
Dilipjena. What is HTTPS and Advantages of it. 21 4 2011. 21 March 2012
SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer virtual private network). July 2006. 21 March 2012
What is the Difference Between http and https? 21 March 2012
