The next generation of the internet: Understanding Web 3.0

TL;DR The internet is undergoing continuous transformation, and Web 3.0 represents the next stage of this evolution. While Web 1.0 offered static content without interaction, Web 2.0 created dynamic platforms with social networks but centralized data aggregation. Web 3.0 aims to return control of digital information to users through decentralized technologies and blockchain. Artificial intelligence and machine learning will play a crucial role, allowing machines to understand and process content in a smarter way. Web 3.0 will provide us with digital identities, open digital economies, and three-dimensional online experiences. Users will enjoy better browsing, targeted advertising, and enhanced customer service. Technologies such as connected smart homes and virtual assistants Siri and Alexa are already practical applications of Web 3.0.

Introduction: The Necessity of Evolution

In the last two decades, the way we interact with the internet has changed radically. Once, we used simple services like Internet Relay Chat for conversations. Then, we moved on to modern social networking platforms and digital banking services. Recently, we have discovered brand new technologies like crypto and decentralized networks.

The internet has become an integral part of human connectivity and shows no signs of slowing down in its evolution. To date, we have witnessed the emergence and maturation of Web 1.0 and Web 2.0, but what are the next steps? What does the world expect from Web 3.0?

The Triple Evolution of the Internet

To understand Web 3.0, we must first examine its historical context.

Web 1.0: The era of static pages

In the 1990s, the internet was quite limited. Websites were created with simple HTML and only presented static information. Users could not modify or upload their own content. Social interactions were limited to basic discussion forums. The term “Web 1.0” was coined in 1999 by web designer Darci DiNucci to distinguish this era from the subsequent stages.

Web 2.0: The content democracy without protection

In the late 1990s, a new model began to emerge. Web 2.0 introduced interactive features through databases, forms, and mainly social networks. This change transformed the online experience from simple observation to active participation. Web 2.0 empowered users to create and share content freely. However, a significant problem gradually set in: as data went online, users lost control over it. Large tech companies began to gather immense amounts of personal information.

Web 3.0: A new era of decentralization

At this point in history, the term Web 3.0 ( or Web3) emerged as a response to concerns of central control. Gavin Wood, founder of Polkadot and co-founder of Ethereum, linked this concept to the power of blockchain and decentralization. This vision aligned with the ideas expressed years earlier by Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, who proposed a “semantic web” where machines could automatically understand the content.

Definition of Web 3.0 and its main characteristics

Web 3.0 is a multidimensional framework that incorporates artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, open protocols, and other advanced technologies. While Web 2.0 emphasized user-generated content on centralized servers, Web 3.0 aims to shift ownership and control of data back to the actual creators.

Web 3.0 is not a strictly defined term. Different people and communities have slightly different versions of what it means. However, some fundamental principles remain constant:

Semantic understanding

While technology has improved in understanding data, there are still many challenges. For example, the word “bad” can mean “good” in certain contexts - something that machines struggle to comprehend. However, with the increase in available data and the improvement of artificial intelligence algorithms, the ability to understand semantics is evolving rapidly.

The power of blockchain and cryptocurrencies

The role of blockchain is critical in Web 3.0. It provides a decentralized system where:

• Anyone can create a cryptocurrency wallet that functions as a digital identity.
• The data is stored in a distributed manner, not on a central server.
• Transactions and agreements can be executed automatically through smart contracts.
• Individuals can gain value from the content they create

Three-dimensional interaction and exploitation

Web 3.0 will not be limited to two dimensions. We are already witnessing a movement towards three-dimensional environments and virtual reality. The metaverse is a pioneering example of this trend. In addition to three-dimensional environments, content design will become more intuitive, making interaction easier.

Artificial Intelligence as the core of the experience

AI will be the vehicle that transforms human creations into data that can be processed by systems. The customer support chatbots we see today are just the initial stage. AI will also gain the ability to improve itself based on the data it analyzes.

Comparative table of the three seasons

The advantages of Web 3.0 over the previous ones

The combination of these characteristics theoretically guarantees significant benefits:

Absence of a central control point - Without intermediaries, there is no monopoly on user data. This reduces the risk of censorship and makes denial-of-service attacks much more difficult.

Richer data connection - As more devices connect to the internet, algorithms have access to more comprehensive datasets, increasing the accuracy of the information provided.

Easier navigation - Search engines using semantic understanding provide more accurate results that better match user needs.

Ad Absorption - Instead of intrusive banners, the ads will be relevant and useful, based on intelligent AI systems.

Superior service - Smart chatbots can serve multiple customers simultaneously, reducing costs and improving quality.

The role of crypto in Web 3.0

Blockchain and cryptocurrencies are not just tools for hoarding wealth. They are the backbone of Web 3.0:

Digital identities and wallets - A cryptocurrency wallet is both a means of transaction and a digital identity. It does not require a central ledger or bank account.

Decentralization of power - Governance is distributed among many participants, not a central authority.

Digital Economies - The ownership of digital assets on blockchain interchange creates new economic opportunities.

Interoperability - Decentralized applications (DApp) and their data become compatible across different blockchains, enhancing connectivity.

Real Applications of Web 3.0 Today

As Web 3.0 continues to evolve, some applications are already operational:

Virtual assistants: Siri and Alexa

Apple Siri and Amazon Alexa use artificial intelligence and natural language processing. They understand voice commands and continuously improve as more people use them. They are characteristic examples of a semantically intelligent service that belongs to the Web 3.0 ecosystem.

Connected smart homes

A significant feature of Web 3.0 is ubiquitous presence. We can access services from multiple devices. Smart home control systems can learn your behavior patterns, adjusting temperature and energy consumption. You can access them from your mobile phone from anywhere.

Conclusions

The internet has rapidly evolved in recent years and shows no signs of exhaustion. Web 3.0 undoubtedly represents the next phase of this evolution. Data is growing exponentially, applications are becoming more intelligent, and users have greater rights.

Although Web 3.0 has not yet been fully integrated, the direction is clear. Blockchain, artificial intelligence, and decentralized architectures will form the foundations of the future Web 3.0. Their integration into daily life is already underway, and the journey is just beginning.