What is Web3?
Web3 refers to a vision of the internet where users own their identity, data and assets via wallets and cryptographic keys instead of platform accounts. In practice it spans dapps, DeFi, NFTs, decentralised social networks and on-chain identity.
Why Web3 matters
Understanding Web3 is part of building a solid mental model of how Bitcoin, blockchain and Web3 systems actually work. Concepts in the Ethereum category sit at the foundation of the broader stack — get them right and the rest is far easier.
Learn this interactively
Reading the definition is a start. ZeroToBlock teaches concepts like Web3 through hands-on, browser-based simulations. Build the mental model by actually using it:
- Bitcoin 101 — interactive fundamentals course
- Bitcoin Proof of Work — mining, hashing and consensus
- Browse all interactive blockchain courses
Related terms
- Ethereum — A programmable blockchain that supports smart contracts.
- Smart Contract — Code on a blockchain that automatically enforces its rules.
- DeFi (Decentralized Finance) — Financial services built from smart contracts.
More ethereum terms
- EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) — The execution environment for Ethereum smart contracts.
- Gas — The unit measuring computational cost on Ethereum.
- NFT (Non-Fungible Token) — A unique, non-interchangeable token on a blockchain.
- Solidity — The most popular programming language for Ethereum smart contracts.
- DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) — An on-chain organization governed by token holders.
- dApp (Decentralized Application) — An app whose backend lives on a blockchain.
- DEX (Decentralized Exchange) — A smart-contract-based trading protocol.
- AMM (Automated Market Maker) — A pricing formula that replaces order books.
Keep exploring
Continue with the full blockchain glossary — 136 terms in total — or read the developer blog and FAQ for deeper context.