What is Web3 and why is it changing the internet?

Web3, also known as Web 3.0 applications, is the new generation of internet platforms built on blockchain technology and decentralization principles. They differ fundamentally from the familiar Web 2.0 services, offering a model where users have real control over their data, identity, and resources. Instead of clicking through portals managed by megacorporations, Web3 opens the door to peer-to-peer interactions, where no intermediary stands between you and another person.

This transformation is not just technological – it’s a shift in the philosophy of the internet. Web3 emphasizes user sovereignty, privacy protection, censorship resistance, and new ways of managing value. A good analogy is how Web 2.0 social media disrupted traditional media – now Web3 is doing the same in finance, media, logistics, and healthcare industries.

From Web 2.0 to Web3 – evolution or revolution?

Web 2.0 appeared at the turn of the century and brought user-generated content and interactivity. But it had a major problem: centralization. Large platforms collected user data, controlled everything, and users were merely products sold to advertisers. Additionally, privacy was under attack, and corporate decisions sometimes went against community wishes.

Web3 emerged as a response to these flaws. Thanks to blockchain and cryptography, every user can control their data, manage their digital identity, and participate in decision-making without censorship or interference from central entities.

Where does Web3 appear?

Web3 applications are almost everywhere – just know where to look:

Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
This is an alternative to traditional banking. DeFi platforms allow lending, investing, and trading without a bank. Users have access to instruments like Yield Farming or Liquidity Mining, where they can earn on their assets.

NFT Markets
Digital ownership has gained a new dimension. Anyone can create, buy, and sell unique digital assets with verified proof of ownership.

Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAO)
Communities can govern themselves without directors. Decisions are made collectively through voting, and rules are embedded in code.

Social networks and identity
Uncensored social platforms where your data belongs to you. Your digital identity is your property.

Data storage platforms
Instead of storing files with tech giants, you can distribute them across the blockchain.

Web3 is changing the market and the tech landscape

The impact of Web3 on traditional sectors is tangible. In finance, an example is a decentralized exchange operating on the Ethereum network, which regularly processes transactions worth billions of dollars, competing with traditional institutions. This shows that the decentralized model is no longer just theory – it’s a market reality.

At the same time, Web3 is creating a new internet economy. Value is no longer controlled by a single company but shared among all network participants. This changes how we earn, invest, and exchange goods.

Latest Web3 trends

The metaverse is no longer science fiction. Platforms like virtual worlds built on blockchain create immersive experiences where users can own real estate, run businesses, and earn real money.

At the same time, DeFi protocols are becoming more advanced – from simple exchanges to complex instruments like flash loans and sophisticated farming strategies. This attracts both individual investors and professional funds.

Decentralized social networks are gaining popularity, and identity management platforms are increasing. In recent years, layer 2 solutions (layer 2) have also been launched to accelerate Web3 and reduce transaction costs.

Web2 vs Web3 in practice

Imagine a scenario: today, you earn money on social media platforms, but the platform takes a 30% fee, and you have no say in governance. In Web3, you can do the same work on a community-managed platform – everyone benefits, everyone decides.

In a traditional bank, a loan requires verification, waiting, and fees. On a DeFi platform – everything takes a minute, with no documents and no questions about your credit history.

Is Web3 the future?

Web3 is not waiting for the future – it’s already happening. Millions of people use Web3 applications every day, whether for investing, data storage, or simply earning. The sector is dynamic, innovative, and constantly evolving.

The journey from Web 1.0 (static pages) through Web 2.0 (interactive services) to Web3 (decentralized internet) is an evolution toward a more democratic, secure, and value-based network model. Web3 applications have the potential to revolutionize finance, media, logistics, and many other fields. This is no longer the future – it’s the present opening up before us.