GET vs. POST: Key Differences in HTTP Methods Explained
The HTTP GET and POST methods are buzzing the internet world these days. Both are two most common request methods used in web development. However, they serve different purposes when interacting with a server. The HTTP GET and POST methods promotes communication between a web browser and a server, but they differ in how they send requests and manage data.
To be precise, HTTP or Hypertext Transfer Protocol specifies a collection of request methods to determine what action is to be performed on a specific resource. In the web development world, the most commonly used HTTP request methods are GET, POST, PATCH, PUT and DELETE. So, today, we will cover the key differences between HTTP GET and POST methods for better clarity.
Let’s Get Started
What is HTTP GET?
Under this method, it requests data from a server without asking to alter its state. The HTTP Get adds parameters to the URL in order to retrieve non-sensitive date. GET is commonly used to review data, making it ideal for requests that don’t require data modification.
For instance: In the following HTML code, we have tried to create a form with text fields, such as Name and Country.
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>
<form action="getmethod.php" method="GET">
Username:
<input type="text" name="NAME" /> <br>
City:
<input type="text" name="Country" /> <br>
<input type="submit" />
</form>
</body>
</html>Here is the following PHP code using the GET method for better understanding:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>
Welcome
<?php echo $_GET["name"]; ?> </br>
Your City is:
<?php echo $_GET["country"]; ?>
</body>
</html>Output: Data passed in GET method is visible in the address bar, which may weaken the security.
What is HTTP POST?
HTTP POST is a request method used to send data from the client to the server for processing. Unlike GET, it transmits data in the request body, making it more secure for credential data. POST is commonly used for file uploads (images and documents), form submissions and creating records in web applications.
For Instance:
In the following HTML Code, we have tried to create a form with text field as Name and Local Area.
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>
<form action="postmethod.php" method="post">
Username:
<input type="text" name="name" /> <br>
Area of Study:
<input type="text" name="local area" /> <br>
<input type="submit" />
</form>
</body>
</html>In the following PHP code, we have used the POST method to display the Name and Local Area
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>
Welcome
<?php echo $_POST["name"]; ?> </br>
YOur Area of Study is:
<?php echo $_POST["local area"]; ?>
</body>
</html>HTTP GET vs. POST: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | GET Method | POST Method |
| Purpose | It retrieves data from the server. | It sends data to the server for processing |
| Data Transmission | Data is appended to the URL | Data is sent in the request body. |
| Visibility | You can view the request parameters in the URL | The best thing about POST is that parameters are hidden from the URL. |
| Security | Compromises on Security as data appears in browser history. Attackers can easily steal the data as it is visible in the URL. | It is more secure as data is not visible in the URL |
| Data Length | Limited by URL Length restrictions | No size restrictions |
| Use Case | It can fetch data and bookmark search queries | It is commonly used to submit forms, uploading sensitive files and processing login credentials. |
| Caching | Requests passed through GET method can be cached by browsers and servers. | It is not cached by default |
| Encoding Type | Application/x.www-form-urlencoded | Application/x-www-form-urlencoded or multipart/form-data. Ensure you use multipart encoding for binary data. |
Most Frequently Asked Questions: GET vs POST
1. How is data transmitted in HTTP GET and POST requests?
In GET method, the data is appended to the URL as query parameters while POST transmits data in the request body.
2. Are Both request Methods secure?
No, both are not secure methods. POST is more safe and secure as it sends data in the body, hiding it from the URL. However, the enhanced security is based on using HTTPS for both methods.
3. Should I use GET or POST for submitting forms?
It is always good to use GET for non-sensitive data retrieval. However, for submitting forms and transferring credential files, always use POST.
4. Do HTTP GET requests modify the server state?
No, GET requests are used for data retrieval without modifying the server state.
5. Why is HTTP POST ideal for sending large amount of data?
POST method can manage large data in the request body while GET is limited by URL length restrictions
Wrapping up
HTTP GET and POST serve different purposes in web communication. GET is great for retrieving data while POST is used for sending date securely to the server. With the help of this guide, developers can pick the right method for various apps, ensuring better performance, security and functionality.
About Author
Pooja
I am a seasoned Senior Content Writer and Manager with over a decade of experience in the IT sector. Known for her creativity and professionalism, she excels in crafting engaging, SEO-friendly content that drives results. Her affiliation with WebNextReview is a matter of great pride for us, as she continues to contribute valuable insights and impactful narratives to our platform. She is Available on linkedin.