The internet timeline is usually divided into three stages: Web 1.0, Web 2.0, and Web 3.0. You may have wondered what they are. In this article, we’ll clearly discuss each of the three stages.
Web 1.0
Web 1.0 was static, read-only, and decentralized. Let’s understand each of these terms one by one.
- Static, Read-only: During the Web 1.0 stage (1991-2004), websites were mostly a collection of static HTML files hosted on a server. There was minimal user interaction. Users couldn’t upload content, submit forms, log in to a website, or post anything. Websites resembled static pages, similar to a collection of Wikipedia entries that could only be viewed. They followed the broadcast model, as in to how TV and radio disseminate information.
- Decentralized: Since websites were quite simple, they were primarily hosted by individuals and organizations who created the sites. They were also peer-to-peer, without any middleman storing data on their servers.
Web 2.0
Web 2.0 is characterized as dynamic, read-write, and centralized.
- Dynamic, Read-Write: Web 2.0, which is widely used today, is very interactive. Users can upload their own content to the internet. Platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok allow users to contribute content, making the web a two-way interaction. This evolution transformed the web into a “read and write” experience.
- Centralized: However, a problem with Web 2.0 is that it is controlled by large companies like Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Web 2.0 operates under the monopoly of these tech organizations. They own your data and have the right to distribute and modify it according to their terms and policies, which often allows them to sell your personal data to advertisers, other companies, and even governments. As they have your data, they can utilize it in many ways without your knowledge.
Web 3.0
To solve the centralization problem, the concept of Web 3.0 was introduced. Web 3.0 is termed ‘read-write-own’ and decentralized, aiming to return data ownership back to users.
Web 3.0 utilizes peer-to-peer networks instead of centralized servers. In Web 3.0, rather than storing data on the servers of large tech companies, data is stored across a distributed network of nodes, breaking the monopoly over data. In Web 3.0, data is encrypted using cryptographic methods to secure it. Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) is employed to enhance privacy. Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) allows users to create and manage their own identity and access personal data, ensuring security. Protocols like Arweave ensure that data will persist on the web indefinitely.
Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) ensure that decisions are not made by a single organization or authority but are instead community-based. This gives users back control over how their data can be utilized.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) also aims to decentralize the finance and currency system by using blockchain technology.
In short, Web 3.0 introduces numerous technologies and ideas to address the centralization problems of Web 2.0. However, Web 3.0 is still in its infancy and has much room for improvement.