The evolution of the Internet
Web 1.0
The purpose of this early internet was to present content and products to consumers, like a catalogue. Web 1.0 was a "read-only" network, as users mostly consumed the information presented on websites but did not contribute independently. It was a time when companies created their websites to present their products and services, and users could simply browse the information provided by these sites.
A lack of dynamic content and personalisation also characterized Web 1.0. Web pages were static and did not change based on the user's actions. And page content came from the server's file system rather than a database. Adverts were also more limited and less targeted than on the modern internet.
However, despite its limitations, Web 1.0 played an essential role in establishing a presence for many companies and organizations on the global network. This stage in the development of the web allowed people to access information and resources that were previously inaccessible without physically visiting other locations.
Web 2.0
While Web 1.0 focuses on reading, Web 2.0 focuses on participation and contribution. The new version of the Web emphasizes UGC (User-Generated Content), ease of use, interactivity and improved compatibility with other systems and devices.
Web 2.0 is known as the "participatory social Web". The pioneers were Blogger and LiveJournal, which ushered in an era of UGC platforms where any consumer could upload content (including video and audio), sell products and build communities. Today's social networks soon followed these.
The new era demanded improvements in users' web browsers: various JavaScript frameworks and AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) appeared, which allowed pages not to reload every time but asynchronously load only the data the user needed.
Unlike the updated network's first version, it already contains dynamic content that responds to user input. Thanks to this, Web 2.0 offers such forms of interaction as:
- podcasting,
- social networking,
- tagging,
- blogging,
- commenting,
- voting for content.
Today, we live in the era of the completion of the Web 2.0 concept.
Web 3.0
No matter how interesting the modern Internet is, at some point, it became pretty obvious that the network needs an upgrade; it should become more confidential and human. So, the idea of another network upgrade was born.
Although elements of Web 3.0 are available today, the Web still has a long way to go before it is fully updated.
The very concept of the new network is still evolving and being defined, so there is no canonical, universally accepted definition yet. However, it is already clear that Web 3.0 will emphasize decentralized applications and extensively use blockchain-based technologies.
The revamped network will ultimately allow users to interact, share information and conduct financial transactions securely without centralized authorities or coordinators putting them at risk. As a result, each user will become a content owner, not just a user.
Web 3
.0 will make it easier to participate in activities by eliminating the need for authorisation from a governing body. It may also include elements of meta-universes, DeFi, DAOs, blockchain games, and dApps.
The new network also includes artificial intelligence and machine learning. And another distinctive feature will be the ubiquitous use of 3D graphics.
Why is this necessary?
A reasonable question arises: "Do we need this upgrade?"
Let's list the main ideas for creating the renewed network concept:
- An Internet that is no longer owned by large corporations but by users.
- Users are the main owners of content.
- An Internet without inhibitions.
- DAOs will take over the role of moderation.
- Anonymity and privacy.
- No intrusive advertising.
- Applications will be able to adjust to each user individually.
- Tokenization of all data and content.
In addition to the above, Web 3.0 will revolutionize the financial system, how companies work, and how people interact. It will transfer all the powers of banks and centralized platforms into the hands of ordinary users. Anyone can move their assets anywhere in the world without intermediaries and the consent of financial institutions and local regulators, which means the world will have more financial freedom.
Although we are only at the beginning of the nascent stage of the new network, it is worth considering that something very important and big is about to happen, and now is the time to get involved in the decentralization process.
At the very least, you should not miss the moment to explore current trends.
