Content Encoding

Content encoding is a method used to prepare data so it can be transmitted efficiently over the internet. Think of it as compressing a file or translating it into a format that reduces size or ensures compatibility between different systems. When you request a webpage, your browser often uses content encoding to unzip or decode the data received, making it easier and faster to access. Common encodings include gzip or deflate, which reduce file size for quicker downloads, ultimately enhancing your browsing experience by speeding up data transfer and saving bandwidth.