What Are X-forwarded Headers, and Why Is It Used?

HTTP headers are essential elements in the communication between clients (e.g., web browsers) and servers on the internet. They contain metadata, which is additional information about the client or the request being made. These headers allow clients and servers to negotiate and agree on various aspects of communication.

For example, headers can specify the format in which the client expects the response data, such as JSON or XML. They can also indicate the preferred language for the content to be returned. Furthermore, server-side headers enable CORS (Cross-Origin Resource Sharing), allowing clients from different origins to access server resources securely. They can also provide information about server capabilities, such as supported encryption protocols or content negotiation preferences. By leveraging headers effectively, clients and servers can optimize communication and ensure the delivery of accurate and appropriate responses.