What Is an HTTP Proxy?
An HTTP proxy handles standard web traffic. When you visit a non-encrypted website (http://), the proxy receives your request in plain text, fetches the content, and sends it back. The data is not encrypted between you and the proxy.
What Is an HTTPS Proxy?
An HTTPS proxy (also called SSL proxy) handles encrypted web traffic. It establishes a secure connection between your browser and the proxy, then separately connects to the target website. Your data is encrypted at least between you and the proxy.
Key Differences
HTTP proxies are faster but less secure. HTTPS proxies provide encryption between you and the proxy. Both can hide your IP. Neither guarantees encryption between the proxy and the target (that depends on the target website's SSL).
When to Use HTTP Proxy
HTTP proxies work for: accessing non-sensitive websites, basic web scraping, testing website content, and when speed is more important than security. Never use HTTP proxies for login forms or personal data.
When to Use HTTPS Proxy
HTTPS proxies are better for: any site requiring login, e-commerce, banking, and general privacy. Most modern web proxies default to HTTPS. Always check that the proxy URL uses https:// in the address bar.