Web3 Basics
Understanding the next evolution of the internet
The Evolution of the Web
Web3 represents the next generation of the internet, built on blockchain technology and focused on decentralization, user ownership, and trustless interactions.
What is Web3?
Web3 is the third generation of the internet, characterized by decentralization, blockchain technology, and user ownership of data and digital assets. It represents a fundamental shift from centralized platforms to distributed networks.
Key Characteristics
- • Decentralized infrastructure
- • User ownership of data
- • Trustless interactions
- • Programmable money
- • Censorship resistance
Core Technologies
- • Blockchain networks
- • Smart contracts
- • Cryptocurrencies
- • Decentralized storage
- • Zero-knowledge proofs
The Evolution of the Web
Web1 (1990s - 2000s)
The first version of the web was primarily static and read-only. Users could browse websites and consume content, but interaction was limited.
- • Static HTML pages
- • Limited user interaction
- • Centralized content creation
- • Basic e-commerce
Web2 (2000s - Present)
The social web enabled user-generated content, social media, and interactive applications. However, data and value are controlled by centralized platforms.
- • Social media platforms
- • User-generated content
- • Centralized data ownership
- • Platform monetization
Web3 (Emerging)
The decentralized web gives users ownership of their data and digital assets through blockchain technology and decentralized applications (dApps).
- • Decentralized applications
- • User-owned data
- • Cryptocurrency integration
- • Trustless interactions
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is the foundational technology that powers Web3. It's a distributed ledger that records transactions across a network of computers in a secure, transparent, and immutable way.
How Blockchain Works
Transaction Creation
A transaction is created and broadcast to the network
Validation
Network nodes validate the transaction
Block Creation
Valid transactions are grouped into blocks
Chain Addition
Blocks are added to the chain permanently
Key Features
Decentralization
No single point of control or failure
Immutability
Data cannot be altered once recorded
Transparency
All transactions are publicly visible
Security
Cryptographic protection against tampering
Smart Contracts
Smart contracts are self-executing programs that run on the blockchain. They automatically execute when predetermined conditions are met, enabling trustless and automated transactions.
Example: NFT Marketplace Smart Contract
contract NFTMarketplace {
function listNFT(uint256 tokenId, uint256 price) public {
require(ownerOf(tokenId) == msg.sender, "Not owner");
listings[tokenId] = price;
emit NFTListed(tokenId, price);
}
function buyNFT(uint256 tokenId) public payable {
require(listings[tokenId] > 0, "Not for sale");
require(msg.value >= listings[tokenId], "Insufficient payment");
address seller = ownerOf(tokenId);
_transfer(seller, msg.sender, tokenId);
seller.transfer(msg.value);
delete listings[tokenId];
emit NFTSold(tokenId, msg.sender, msg.value);
}
}
Automated
Execute automatically when conditions are met
Trustless
No need to trust intermediaries
Programmable
Can implement complex business logic
Web3 Applications
Web3 applications (dApps) are decentralized applications that run on blockchain networks. They provide the same functionality as traditional apps but with added benefits of decentralization.
DeFi (Decentralized Finance)
Financial services built on blockchain technology, including lending, borrowing, trading, and yield farming.
- • Uniswap - Decentralized exchange
- • Aave - Lending platform
- • Compound - Interest-earning
NFT Marketplaces
Platforms for buying, selling, and trading non-fungible tokens and digital collectibles.
- • OpenSea - Largest NFT marketplace
- • Rarible - Community-owned
- • Foundation - Curated art
DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations)
Community-governed organizations that operate through smart contracts and token voting.
- • MakerDAO - Stablecoin governance
- • Uniswap DAO - Protocol governance
- • ConstitutionDAO - Community funding
Gaming & Metaverse
Blockchain-based games and virtual worlds where players own their in-game assets.
- • Axie Infinity - Play-to-earn game
- • Decentraland - Virtual world
- • The Sandbox - Gaming platform