HTTP Interception

HTTP Interception is a technique used to capture, inspect, and modify HTTP/HTTPS traffic between a client and server, typically for debugging, testing, or security analysis. It involves tools that act as proxies to intercept requests and responses, allowing developers to analyze network behavior, simulate server responses, or manipulate data in transit. This is commonly used in web development, API testing, and security auditing to understand and control network interactions.

Also known as: HTTP Traffic Interception, HTTP Proxy, Man-in-the-Middle (MITM), Network Interception, Traffic Sniffing

Why learn HTTP Interception?

Developers should learn HTTP Interception when debugging complex web applications, testing APIs, or performing security assessments, as it provides visibility into network traffic that browsers or applications generate. It is essential for identifying performance bottlenecks, validating request/response payloads, and simulating edge cases like server errors or slow responses. Security professionals use it to analyze vulnerabilities, such as insecure data transmission or injection attacks, by inspecting and tampering with live traffic.

Learning Resources

• docs: OWASP ZAP Documentation
• tutorial: Burp Suite Tutorial for Beginners
• tutorial: Fiddler Everywhere Learning Center
• docs: HTTP Interception with Charles Proxy
• video: MITM Proxy Tutorial on YouTube