GET Method in HTML vs. POST Method in HTML: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 26, 2024
GET in HTML submits data via URL, ideal for retrieving data and bookmarking, while POST submits data within the request body, suitable for large data and secure transactions.
Key Differences
The GET method in HTML is used primarily for requesting data from a specified resource. It appends data to be sent to the server as a part of the URL, visible and limited in length. This visibility makes the GET method less secure for sensitive data. Conversely, the POST method sends data within the HTTP request body, not in the URL. This approach allows for larger amounts of data to be transferred securely, making it more suitable for forms containing sensitive information like passwords.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
In GET method operations, because the data is part of the URL, it can be easily bookmarked or shared, allowing for the replication of a specific state of a web application. However, this can also lead to security and privacy issues. On the other hand, the POST method does not expose data in the URL, making it a better choice for private or confidential transactions. The lack of data in the URL means POST requests cannot be bookmarked or directly shared.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
The GET method's data length is restricted by the URL length limit (which can vary by browser), making it unsuitable for large quantities of data. It is typically used for simple data retrieval tasks where security is not a major concern. In contrast, the POST method does not have this limitation, allowing for much larger data payloads. This makes it ideal for complex transactions, like file uploads or updating data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
For idempotent operations (where multiple identical requests have the same effect as a single one), GET is more appropriate. It aligns with the HTTP specification that GET requests should not change the state of the server. POST, however, is used for non-idempotent operations. Each POST request can alter the server's state, such as submitting a form multiple times resulting in multiple entries.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
In summary, the GET method in HTML is best suited for simple, non-sensitive data retrieval, especially where bookmarking or sharing URLs is beneficial. In contrast, the POST method caters to secure, large-data transactions where privacy is paramount and the operation may change the server's state. The choice between GET and POST depends on the requirements of data security, size, and the nature of the operation.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Security
Less secure, as data is visible in URL
More secure, hides data from URL
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Bookmarking/Shareability
Can be bookmarked and shared
Cannot be bookmarked or shared
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Feb 26, 2024
Suitable Use
Ideal for data retrieval and idempotent operations
Suitable for large data transfers and form submissions
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
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GET Method in HTML and POST Method in HTML Definitions
GET Method in HTML
GET method appends data to the URL for server requests.
A search engine uses the GET method to include query terms in the URL.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 24, 2024
POST Method in HTML
It is more secure, hiding data from the URL.
Sensitive information is sent using POST to prevent exposure in the URL.
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Jan 24, 2024
GET Method in HTML
Ideal for simple data retrieval without confidentiality concerns.
GET is used for fetching an image where data security is not a priority.
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Jan 24, 2024
POST Method in HTML
POST method sends data within the HTTP request body, not in the URL.
A login form uses POST to securely transmit user credentials.
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Jan 24, 2024
GET Method in HTML
It is visible and can be bookmarked in the browser.
Bookmarking a product page is possible because of the GET method.
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Jan 24, 2024
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POST Method in HTML
POST requests cannot be bookmarked or easily shared.
Submitting an online purchase order uses POST, and the action can't be bookmarked.
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Jan 24, 2024
GET Method in HTML
GET is less secure, exposing data in the URL.
User preferences are often passed using GET, visible in the browser's address bar.
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Jan 24, 2024
POST Method in HTML
Suitable for large amounts of data and file uploads.
Uploading a document is done through POST due to its data capacity.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 24, 2024
GET Method in HTML
GET has limitations on the amount of data due to URL length.
Complex forms should not use GET due to URL length restrictions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 24, 2024
POST Method in HTML
Used for operations that change the server's state.
POST is ideal for updating a user's profile, as it alters server data.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 24, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is the GET method in HTML?
It's a method for requesting data from a server, appending data to the URL.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Are there size limitations with GET?
Yes, limited by the maximum URL length.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Is the GET method secure for sensitive data?
No, as it exposes data in the URL.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Are POST requests bookmarkable?
No, they can't be bookmarked or shared via URL.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Should login forms use GET or POST?
POST, for secure transmission of credentials.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Can GET requests be bookmarked?
Yes, they can be bookmarked due to visible URL data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Can GET be used for file uploads?
No, due to its data size and security limitations.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Is GET suitable for data submission forms?
Not ideal for forms with sensitive or large data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
What is the POST method in HTML?
A method for sending data to a server within the request body.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Can POST handle large data transfers?
Yes, it's suitable for large data payloads.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Is POST suitable for updating database records?
Yes, as it's secure and can handle larger data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Can GET be used for idempotent server operations?
Yes, it's suitable for operations that don't change the server's state.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Is POST appropriate for simple data queries?
Not typically, as it's better for larger or secure transactions.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Should POST be used for sensitive data transactions?
Yes, it's preferred for secure data transmissions.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Do both GET and POST work with all browsers?
Yes, they are universally supported in web browsers.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Do GET and POST have different server effects?
Yes, GET is for retrieving data without effect, while POST can alter server data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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