HTTP Requests and Responses Explained: What Happens When a Website Loads

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

1. 1

   Step 1: The browser makes a request

   0:18

   It asks for a resource identified by an address.

   On-screen labels: Browser client; Resource address; Outgoing request.

2. 2

   Step 2: The method describes the job

   0:30

   An HTTP method indicates the operation being requested.

   On-screen labels: Requested operation; HTTP method; Relevant resource.

3. 3

   Step 3: The server sends a response

   0:42

   The reply includes a status and can include content.

   On-screen labels: Response status; Response information; Optional content.

4. 4

   Step 4: A page uses many resources

   0:54

   The browser may also request images, stylesheets and scripts.

   On-screen labels: Page document; Images and styles; Scripts and other files.

5. 5

   Step 5: Requests can happen later

   1:06

   An interactive page may fetch more information after its initial load.

   On-screen labels: Initial page load; Later interaction; Additional request.

6. 6

   Step 6: Inspect the specific exchange

   1:18

   A developer can examine the request and response when diagnosing a fault.

   On-screen labels: Resource address; Observed status; Relevant response.

Common questions

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