What is an HTTP request?

An HTTP request is fundamentally a message sent by a client, such as a web browser, to a server to initiate an action. This action often involves requesting a specific resource, such as a web page, an image, or any other content available on the server.

When the client performs an action, it formats this request in accordance with the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), which outlines the manner in which messages are formatted and transmitted between clients and servers. This request usually includes various components such as the request method (e.g., GET or POST), the URL of the resource being requested, and additional headers that provide context or specifications about the request.

Understanding the purpose of an HTTP request is crucial in web development and communication as it establishes the basis for how clients interact with servers to retrieve or send data over the internet.