The internet has undergone remarkable transformations since its inception, giving rise to distinct phases known as Web 1.0, Web 2.0, and the upcoming Web 3.0. Each iteration has brought new capabilities, user experiences, and technological advancements. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between these three stages, shedding light on the evolution of the internet and its impact on our digital lives.

Web 1.0: The Static Web

Web 1.0, often referred to as the "Static Web" or the "Read-Only Web," emerged during the early days of the internet in the 1990s. It was primarily characterised by static websites that provided information in a one-way manner. Users were passive recipients of content and had limited interaction or participation. Key features of Web 1.0 include:

1. Static Content: Websites in Web 1.0 were static, consisting of HTML pages with fixed information that rarely changed. They acted as online brochures or repositories of data, lacking dynamic elements or user-generated content.

2. Limited User Interaction: Users had limited ability to interact with websites. They could navigate through pages, click on hyperlinks, and consume information but had little opportunity to contribute or engage with the content.

3. Lack of Personalization: Web 1.0 websites offered little to no personalization. Content was the same for every visitor, irrespective of their preferences or interests.

4. Centralised Publishing: Content creation and publishing were controlled by a select few, such as businesses, organisations, and media companies. Users had little agency in shaping the content landscape.

Web 2.0: The Interactive Web

Web 2.0, also known as the "Social Web" or the "Read-Write Web," emerged in the early 2000s and brought about a significant shift in internet usage patterns and user experiences. Web 2.0 transformed the web from a static information repository into a dynamic and interactive platform. Key features of Web 2.0 include:

1. User-Generated Content: Web 2.0 empowered users to create, share, and collaborate on content. Platforms like blogs, social media, and video-sharing websites enabled users to generate their own content, fostering a participatory culture.

2. Social Networking: Web 2.0 introduced the concept of social networking platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, connecting people globally and enabling social interactions, communication, and community building.

3. Dynamic Websites and Applications: Web 2.0 websites and applications became more dynamic and responsive. They incorporated technologies like JavaScript, AJAX, and Flash to create interactive and engaging user interfaces.

4. Personalization and Customization: Web 2.0 embraced personalization, tailoring content and recommendations based on user preferences and behaviour. Algorithms analysed user data to deliver targeted advertisements and personalised recommendations.

Web 3.0: The Decentralised Web

Web 3.0, often referred to as the "Semantic Web" or the "Decentralised Web," represents the next phase in the evolution of the internet, still in its early stages of development. Web 3.0 aims to build upon the foundations of Web 2.0 while addressing its limitations and introducing new technologies and paradigms. Key features of Web 3.0 include:

1. Decentralisation: Web 3.0 emphasises decentralisation by leveraging blockchain technology. It aims to remove reliance on central authorities and intermediaries, enabling peer-to-peer interactions and greater user control over data and digital assets.

2. Interoperability: Web 3.0 emphasises seamless interoperability

Conclusion

The internet has come a long way since its inception, evolving from static websites to interactive platforms and now towards a decentralised paradigm. Web 3.0 holds the promise of empowering users with greater control over their data and fostering peer-to-peer interactions