Unveiling Web5: A Decentralised Evolution
The evolution of the World Wide Web has witnessed remarkable strides, from the static pages of Web1 to the interactive platforms of Web2. Yet, with these advancements, concerns have emerged regarding data privacy and ownership. In Web2, users often sacrifice control over their personal information, raising questions about how service providers utilise this data. Enter Web3, introducing the concept of decentralised identity, where users can own and control their information through a cryptographic key. However, Web5, spearheaded by Jack Dorsey and built on the Bitcoin blockchain, takes this notion further, offering a revolutionary blend of Web2 services and Web3 technology.
Web5 emerges as a crucial evolution by addressing the limitations of Web2, providing users with a decentralised identity and storage, ensuring data ownership, and fostering a user-centric digital landscape.
Decentralised Identity in Web3:
- In Web3, the concept of decentralised identity takes centre stage. Users can hypothetically hold their information in a secure space—a wallet. Service providers must request access, and users, armed with cryptographic keys, retain control. This is a significant step towards data ownership. However, limitations persist, paving the way for the next phase of the web.
Jack Dorsey's Vision - Web5 as the Synthesis:
Enter Jack Dorsey and his innovative approach. Web5, built on the Bitcoin blockchain, integrates the best of both Web2 and Web3. This synthesis allows users to enjoy the convenience of Web2 services while benefiting from the security and control offered by Web3. The result is a decentralised web that caters to the needs and concerns of the people.
Web5 introduces a novel framework comprising a Decentralised Web Platform (DWP), where developers build Decentralised Web Applications (DWAs). The use of Decentralised Identifiers (DID) ensures verifiable identities, and Decentralised Web Nodes (DWN) serve as secure data storage. This ecosystem empowers individuals to truly own and control their data, marking a paradigm shift in the digital landscape.
Core Pillars of Web5: DiD, Verifiable Credentials, DWN:
- The core pillars of Web5—Decentralised Identifiers (DiD), verifiable credentials, and Decentralised Web Nodes (DWN)—operate in synergy. Users are bestowed with the authority to verify their identity on the network without relying on tokens. This decentralised approach, championed by Jack Dorsey's organisation TBD, positions Web5 as a platform "for the people."
Web5 represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the World Wide Web. Addressing the concerns of Web2 and building upon the foundations of Web3, Web5 offers a decentralised solution that prioritises data ownership and user control. The pillars of Web5—DWP, DWAs, DIDs, and DWNs—provide a comprehensive framework that aligns with Jack Dorsey's vision of a web that truly serves the people. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, Web5 emerges as a necessary evolution, fostering a decentralised, secure, and user-centric digital landscape.