Have you ever wondered how the internet is evolving, and shaping our digital experiences? You probably have received payments in cryptocurrencies, minted NFTs, or participated in an airdrop.
These innovations stem from the Web3 Infrastructure.

The Web3 infrastructure represents a paradigm shift from traditional internet models. It involves decentralized technologies, blockchain networks, and consensus mechanisms, promising increased security, transparency, and user empowerment.

Why Web3 Matters

As we explore Web3, it's essential to understand its significance. Web3 isn't just a technological upgrade; it's a movement towards a more user-centric, secure, and interconnected digital experience.

In this guide, we'll break down key components of Web3 infrastructure. From consensus mechanisms and blockchain nodes to decentralized storage and privacy solutions.

Ready? Let's dive in!

Evolution to Web3

Web1 - Read only 📜

Web2 - Read and Write 📜 ✍️

Web3 - Read, Write and Own. 📜 ✍️ 🔐

Web1 involved static web pages and limited user interaction. You could consume information on the internet.

Next Web2 came onboard, which we still use today. Facebook and Twitter are examples. You can consume and create content within the set rules of the platform’s regulations.

Web3 is built on the blockchain, a distributed ledger that records transactions securely. With Web3, you have the access to not just consume and create, but also own content on the internet, without third-party interference. In other words - a Decentralised internet.

The Web3 Infrastructure

Oxford Reference defines infrastructure as the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, power supplies) needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
The Web3 infrastructure involves the technologies, tools, and processes that are used to build, deliver and scale web3 products and solutions. They include:

Blockchain Nodes and Networks: The Blockchain is a decentralized ledger which consists of individual computers connected to a blockchain network not controlled by a single entity. These computers are referred to as Nodes. Each node maintains a copy of the blockchain. Blockchain networks are distributed, decentralized ledgers that consist of multiple nodes working together Examples are Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Cardano.

Consensus Mechanisms: Consensus mechanisms known as Proof of Work, Proof of Stake and other forms are used in validating transactions and operations in a blockchain network.

Developer Tools: These are tools Web3 developers use in their workflow. They include:

Programming Languages: Solidity, JavaScript, Go, Rust and Python are programming languages used in Web3 development.

Integrated Development Environments: Remix, an open-source IDE for Ethereum smart contract development, provides developers with a user-friendly environment for coding, and testing decentralized applications.

Frameworks and Libraries: HardHat, a framework and JavaScript libraries - Web3.js and ethers.js are used in building smart contracts and dApps that interact with Ethereum and other compatible blockchains.

Smart Contracts: Self-executing algorithms that ensure conditions are met within terms of an agreement between two(or more parties). These terms are directly programmed in the code.

Oracles: Oracles play a crucial role in Web3 by facilitating smart contracts' interaction with external, real-world data.

Decentralized Storage: Decentralized Storage solutions enable decentralized storage and distribution of data. Some are InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), WeaveDB and Filecoin. Offer more security and transparency compared to traditional storage platforms.

Web3 Development Platforms: Platforms like Alchemy serve as crucial tools for Web3 development. Alchemy provides developers with the infrastructure and tools to build scalable and reliable blockchain applications.

Decentralized Apps (dApps): dApps are decentralized applications built on the blockchain, operating in a peer-to-peer network rather than relying on a central authority. Examples of dApps include Pancake Swap, OpenSea and MakerDAO.

Cryptocurrencies: Digital currencies that are exchanged and stored on digital wallets like TrustWallet, and Metamask. ETH and BTC are examples of cryptocurrencies.

Cryptographic protocols: Cryptographic protocols in the Web3 ecosystem are fundamental to ensuring the security and integrity of transactions and communications. Hash functions and public-key cryptography are types of cryptographic protocols used in the Web3 ecosystem.

Identity and Privacy Tools: Some Web3 tools that aid in identity and privacy are Nametag, Lit Protocol, Stripe Identity, and Privy.
Security Tools: Web3 security tools include MixBytes, Cyfrin (for smart contract auditing), Spearbit, and Harpie.

Get Educated!

If you’ve gotten to this point, then the Web3 space might interest you. Here are platforms to get educated and become a Web3 builder:
Alchemy University

Web3 Bridge

Cyfrin Updraft
LearnWeb3
Remember, it’s one day or day one. Start today and be consistent with it! 🛸

The main aim of Web3 is to provide netizens (internet citizens) with control over their data and the platforms they interact with.

              Web3 in three words: Read, Write & Own.

Web3 infrastructures form the building block of the ecosystem, they are integrated and build up solutions instrumental in the space.

Thanks for reading! If you have questions, you can share them in the comment section. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn and Twitter!😀

Cover image by vectorpocket on Freepik