The Scheme

HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is the common method to encapsulate a Query and Reply pair of messages. The messages contain a head and body section. The head provides detailed information for the Query and status of the Reply.

HTTPS simply wraps the HTTP messages in a security layer which will include encryption and perhaps signatures to validate the messages. In general it does not impact the content of what otherwise in an HTTP exchange.

Other schemes have been used over the years, such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol). Since most all services can be done via HTTP, the other schemes have falling into disuse.