Purpose
Microsoft Windows HTTP Services (WinHTTP) provides developers with an HTTP client application programming interface (API) to send requests through the HTTP protocol to other HTTP servers.
Where Applicable
WinHTTP supports desktop client applications, Windows services, and Windows server-based applications.
WinHTTP is not recommended for applications built on the Microsoft .NET Framework, because .NET Framework applications should use the networking facilities in the System.net classes.
Developer Audience
WinHTTP offers both a C/C++ application programming interface (API) and a Component Object Model (COM) automation component suitable for use in Active Server Pages (ASP) based applications.
A basic understanding of the
HTTP protocol is important to use either interface.
Run-Time Requirements
WinHTTP 5.1 offers improvements over version 5.0. It is included in the operating system. For more information about new features, see What's New in WinHTTP 5.1 and What's New in Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista.
Important With WinHTTP version 5.1, the WinHTTP 5.0 download is not available. As of October 1, 2004, Microsoft has removed the WinHTTP 5.0 SDK download from MSDN and terminated product support for version 5.0.
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Build date: 7/9/2009