Description: Web3 infrastructure refers to the underlying technology that supports decentralized applications, known as dApps. This infrastructure is based on principles of decentralization, where data and applications are not controlled by a single entity but are distributed across a network of nodes. This is primarily achieved through the use of technologies such as blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized storage systems. Web3 infrastructure enables users to interact directly and securely, eliminating intermediaries and promoting transparency. Furthermore, it encourages user ownership of data, contrasting with the traditional Web2 model where centralized platforms control information. Web3 infrastructure also includes communication protocols and networks that facilitate interoperability between different applications and services, creating a more cohesive and accessible ecosystem. In summary, Web3 infrastructure is essential for the development of a more open, secure, and user-centric internet, where trust is established through technology rather than relying on centralized entities.
History: The term Web3 began to gain popularity in the mid-2010s, in a context where blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies were emerging. In 2014, Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood coined the term ‘Web3’ to describe a new vision of the internet that would be decentralized and blockchain-based. Since then, various projects and platforms have begun to develop, seeking to create an ecosystem where users have more control over their data and transactions. The evolution of Web3 infrastructure has been marked by milestones such as the launch of Ethereum in 2015, which introduced smart contracts, and the growth of decentralized storage platforms like IPFS and Filecoin.
Uses: Web3 infrastructure is used in a variety of applications, including decentralized finance (DeFi), where users can conduct transactions without intermediaries; non-fungible token (NFT) platforms, which allow for digital ownership of unique assets; and decentralized social networks, which give users greater control over their content and data. It is also applied in electronic voting systems, where transparency and immutability are crucial, as well as in the creation of secure digital identities that protect user privacy.
Examples: Examples of Web3 infrastructure include Ethereum, which enables the creation of smart contracts and dApps; IPFS, a decentralized storage system that facilitates file distribution; and platforms like Uniswap, which allow for decentralized cryptocurrency trading. Another example is decentralized social networks that operate in a manner that allows users to have control over their data and communities.
