Components of an HTTP Message

The role of an HTTP message includes much more than a simple transfer of data. The message forms the lifeblood of the entire HTTP implementation. In addition to the actual data, a message contains information related to the nature of the message, the version of HTTP used, the target URL, the preferences of the client and the server, the connection, and a host of other essential instructions to the client and the server. Based on the source, a message can be classified into a request message or a response message with each type having varying components. Each component is further divided into subcomponents. Although the message components might vary based on its type, a common component called the Header is present ...

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