The World Wide Web was created in 1989 by British scientist Tim Berners-Lee while working at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. He wanted to make it easier for researchers to share information across different computers. Berners-Lee developed the key technologies that still power the web today: HTML (the language for web pages), HTTP (the protocol for transferring data), and URLs (addresses for finding resources online). The first website went live in 1991, and from there, the web quickly grew beyond scientific use to become a global network connecting people, information, and services worldwide.
Origins
Growth
After its creation in the early 1990s, the World Wide Web spread rapidly beyond research institutions and universities. In 1993, the release of the Mosaic web browser made it much easier for the public to access and navigate websites, helping to spark the internet boom. Companies and individuals began creating their own websites, and by the mid-1990s, the web had become a major platform for communication, commerce, and entertainment.
The late 1990s and early 2000s saw the rise of search engines like Google and the growth of social media platforms, which transformed how people found and shared information. As technology improved, the web evolved into what is known as “Web 2.0,” emphasizing user interaction, collaboration, and dynamic content. Today, the web continues to evolve, connecting billions of people through mobile devices, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, shaping nearly every aspect of modern life.
During the 2010s, the web became more mobile, social, and data-driven than ever before. The widespread use of smartphones and tablets made the internet accessible almost anywhere, while apps and social networks like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and later TikTok reshaped how people communicated and consumed information. Streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify transformed media and entertainment, and cloud computing allowed users to store and access data from anywhere.
The rise of big data, artificial intelligence, and personalized algorithms also began to define how information was delivered and experienced online. At the same time, concerns about privacy, misinformation, and digital dependence grew.
In the 2020s, the web continues to evolve toward greater interactivity and decentralization. Technologies such as blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, and AI-driven tools are reshaping online experiences. The idea of the “metaverse” and the development of Web3 aim to give users more control over their data and digital identities. Today, the web remains a dynamic and essential part of everyday life—constantly changing to reflect how people connect, create, and share in an increasingly digital world.
2010 - and onwards
Impact on society
The web has had a profound impact on today’s society, transforming nearly every aspect of how people live, work, and communicate. It has made information and knowledge more accessible than at any other time in history, allowing anyone with an internet connection to learn, create, and share ideas instantly. The web has revolutionized communication through email, social media, and video calls, connecting people across the globe in real time.
Economically, it has reshaped industries—enabling e-commerce, remote work, and digital entrepreneurship—while giving rise to entirely new sectors like the gig economy and influencer culture. Education, healthcare, and government services have also moved online, increasing convenience and access for millions.
However, the web’s influence is not without challenges. Issues such as data privacy, misinformation, cybercrime, and the digital divide highlight ongoing tensions between connectivity and control. Despite these challenges, the web remains one of humanity’s most powerful tools—driving innovation, fostering global collaboration, and continually redefining what it means to live in a connected world.
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Image and Media formats
.jpg
The .jpg (or .jpeg) file format, short for Joint Photographic Experts Group, is one of the most common types of image files. It uses lossy compression, which reduces file size by removing some image data. This makes JPGs ideal for photos and web images where small size matters. However, repeated saving can slightly lower image quality over time.
.png - 8
The .png-8 file format is a type of PNG image that supports up to 256 colors, similar to a GIF. It uses lossless compression, meaning no image data is lost during saving, so quality remains sharp. PNG-8 files are great for simple graphics like icons, logos, or web interface elements where small file size and crisp edges are important.
.png - 24
The .png-24 format supports over 16 million colors and full transparency, making it ideal for high-quality images with smooth gradients. Like PNG-8, it uses lossless compression, so no detail is lost, but the file size is usually larger. PNG-24 is often used for professional graphics, digital art, and images that require high color accuracy.
.GIF
The .gif file format (short for Graphics Interchange Format) supports up to 256 colors and is best known for its ability to display simple animations. It uses lossless compression, which keeps images sharp but limits color depth. GIFs are popular for short animated clips, memes, and web graphics with simple color schemes.
.SVG
The .svg file format (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a vector-based image type that uses mathematical shapes instead of pixels. This means SVG images can be scaled to any size without losing quality. They are perfect for logos, icons, and web illustrations, and can even include animations and interactivity using code.