The world of technology is evolving, and so are we humans. If you know about blockchain and technology, then you must have heard about Web 2.0 and Web 3.0.
The Internet has gone through different stages before getting to this present stage. Web 2.0 and 3.0 are different phases of the internet with unique attributes in how people connect and interact on the internet.
Each stage came with its relevance and benefit in internet development. However, their differences could be complicated to decipher.
Let’s deal with these technological concepts once and for all and bid uncertainty goodbye. But before then, let’s delve into the evolution of the web to get a proper foundation.
The Web Evolution
Since the creation of the internet, it has developed in numerous stages over the century. The first phase of the internet, Web 1.0, existed between 1989–2005. Web 1.0 is also called the read-only web.
Web 1.0 enabled the broadcast of information and access to data from any part of the world. Users can search for and use the information on the web. It included static web pages which served content from the file system of servers.
However, it did not provide many functionalities for user interaction and content. There weren’t a lot of content creators, and hence web 2.0 began gaining prominence. Web 2.0 is the present phase of the internet today.
The subsequent setbacks of web 2.0 also resulted in the development of web 3.0, which is set to be the new phase of the internet.
Now that we’ve established the different phases of the internet let’s identify what these stages of the internet entail before stating their difference.
The Web 2.0 Phase of The Internet
Web 2.0 is our present internet and an upgrade to Web 1.0. It is characterized mainly by upgrading from static to dynamic or contents generated by users. Users can both read and write on the internet.
The system behind web 2.0 aims to engage users actively, and the contents on it are user-generated. Web 2.0 transformed how we share and deliver information through components like blogs, social media apps, and wikis.
However, access to web 2.0 internet is through middlemen, i.e., the tech companies. They provide services for users in exchange for personal data. The central authorities, the tech giants, control users’ engagement and interaction on web 2.0.
Examples of Web 2.0 platforms include Twitter, Facebook, and Wikipedia.
Web 3.0 Phase of The Internet
Web 3.0 is the third generation of the internet. It represents a successive and advanced iteration of both web 1.0 and 2.0.
Web 3.0 is the internet where apps and websites will be able to process information and contents in an intelligent human-like way through technologies. The technologies include AI, Machine learning, Big Data, and decentralized ledger technology.
Web 3.0 also focuses on decentralizing processes and eradicating any middleman in the form of tech giants trying to control users’ internet activities.
Web 3.0 is a shift from data collected and controlled by tech companies through social media(web 2.0) to a decentralized web structure where users own and control their data.
The entire process of content creation and data privacy will involve humans and machines (AI).
What Are The Differences Between Web 2.0 and Web 3.0?
The key differences between web 2.0 and web 3.0 are highlighted below:
Decentralization
While the second generation of the internet focused on interaction, the third generation focused on decentralization and semantic learning. Web 3.0 is built on the concept of decentralization and openness. This means users’ data are not controlled or governed by any central authority.
Censoring
Web 3.0 network is decentralized, which means there’s no sole authority. It frees users from the shackles of tech companies that control how they use and post on the internet. No one can block or deny you access to the internet.No more censorship and surveillance.
Digital Identity
Web 3.0 users will have their own digital identity, which means more control over their privacy. You can control everything, decide who and under what conditions you want to reveal your digital identity.
Final Words
Web 3.0 is an upgrade to Web 2.0 and an essential step towards progress. The clear observation of differences between the two stages of technology shows web 3.0 offers better advantages than web 2.0.
It promises a better infrastructure required for the interaction between machines and humans. It also comes with improved security, trust, and privacy.
Web 3.0 is now referred to as the Web 2.0 Killer, but it has not fully arrived, and it is premature, so it’s early to bury web 2.0.
However, it’s evident that with the advent of Web 3.0 technology, many established protocols will change.
