Question

Is it possible to count files under a directory when you’re only reading to https url? or only possible through ftp?

Answer 1

Only through ftp

http & https are protocols to view web applications. Features like directory listing are done from server, not through such protocols.

Explanation in case of php & apache server

When you are using commands like scandir() to read file and directory, its the server that does the reading for you. not any http or https link. The page you browse through such protocols will only deliver the output markup on the page.

Through these protocols, all files except server-side files can be delivered on their actual format.