What is Web 4.0?

Explore the concept of Web 4.0, its innovations, and how it reshapes digital landscapes for a smarter, interconnected future.

Introduction to the Internet and its definitions

The Internet is a large system that connects multiple servers and systems of computers, and mobile phones globally. The Internet as per its definition is described as “networks of networks” that serve as crucial elements when it comes to communication between two distinct resources in the digital world. The conformations of the internet have always helped to transform day-to-day communication with every aspect that inclines us towards modern living.

World Wide Web is simply in common terms is pile of pages which are interconnected among each other and follow protocols called HTTP for communicating data between servers and clients. The World Wide Web referred to as the Web, is one of the subsets of the Internet that monitors and mediates interaction between users like us and the digital content available dynamically.

With the advancement in technology standards and user behaviour web is evolving and every time with the addition of new features it emerges as the new version. In this article, we will delve into the latest and most intelligent version of the web now i.e. Web 4.0 and consider it as the next evolutionary and significant step in the growth and development of the internet. Web 4.0 is still in the conceptual stage which means it has not yet been released, however, it is believed that the commencement of Web 4.0 could involve building AI tools of advanced level that turn out to be more responsive and intelligent.

Web 4.0 is also known as the “Intelligent Web”, it will be distinct from other web versions in multiple parameters such as collaborative performance, user-friendly interactions, machine-driven executions and many more. it is featured with development from the static era to the dynamic era with a change in traditional web pages. Moreover, it is often said that Web 4.0 will comprise intelligent agents which will be capable of understanding user preferences and providing service accordingly. Web 4.0 is in its developing stage and says that with the emergence and evolution of Web 4.0 will process giant data in huge amounts in unstructured form. Web 4.0 will be going to comprehend complexities in a more advanced version than Web 3 or the old web versions. Web 4.0 has another name “Symbiotic Web” and as per this meaning, Web 4.0 mainly emphasizes the mutual relation between the user and systems. Symbiosis essentially means when two objects possess a mutually beneficial relationship with each other, On translating it here, Symbiosis Web refers to the long-term goal of technology where humans interact closely with machines and will be going to encourage each other and help in their existence. The purpose behind this Symbiotic Web is to involve and build connections between humans and machines such that at a certain level, even the machine can be as intuitive enough as the human mind. It’s a vision of the web that is not only about connectivity or information exchange but also about creating a harmonious and interdependent digital ecosystem.

Difference in Web 4.0 from Web 3.0

Let’s explore the disparities between Web 3.0 and Web 4.0.

Web 3.0 (Semantic Web)

1. Decentralization: Often termed the “semantic web,” Web 3.0 aims for a more decentralized, open-source, and immersive online experience. It facilitates user participation, content creation, and ownership without dependence on intermediaries.

2. Blockchain Infrastructure: Web 3.0’s infrastructure relies on the blockchain—a public ledger—allowing trustless interactions among users without reliance on a central authority.

3. Monetization and Ownership: In contrast to Web 2.0, where platforms profit from user-generated content, Web 3.0 empowers users to monetize their data and retain ownership of their contributions.

4. Elements: Web 3.0 integrates decentralization, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality (AR/VR), and ubiquity.

Web 4.0 (Intelligent Web)

Web 4.0 is way more decentralization and integration with Machines-

1. It has Higher Decentralization: where Web 4.0 extends decentralization further, aiming for a simpler and more integrated internet connected to human thinking and cognition, without precise definition.

2. It comprises features of Cerebral Web where Some sources suggest Web 4.0 will be more “cerebral” as it involves deep learning indicating a deeper connection between human minds and the digital realm.

Web 4.0, Mentioned by Elon Musk and Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, Web FOUR, a meme coin, humorously reflects the concept of the next internet iteration. While not directly addressing Web 4.0’s technical aspects, Web four promotes accessible decentralization¹.

Web 3.0 Critique: Musk and Dorsey argue that Web 3.0 lacks true decentralization and primarily serves venture capitalists (VCs), citing ongoing capital concentration issues.

Final Thoughts

Web 4.0 stands as a beacon of technological prowess, ready to redefine the behavior and expertise of our existence digitally. With its blend of multiple technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual and augmented reality, and blockchain, this new element shows a pattern or design that shows shift towards unmatched connectivity, proficient intelligence, and creative innovation.

With its core, Web 4.0 represents a cumulative behavior of multiple and distinct technologies, each volunteering to create an advanced, seamless and intelligent digital ecosystem. Artificial intelligence, with its ability to detect huge information and data and make autonomous decisions, empowers Web 4.0 with unprecedented levels of automation and intelligence. Machine learning algorithms further enhance this intelligence by continuously learning and adapting to new data, making systems more efficient and responsive.

The Internet of Things (IoT) with its a significant role in Web 4.0, helps in the connection of multiple devices and let them communicate and share their respective real-time data. This interconnectedness not only enhances efficiency and productivity but also act as a foundation that paves the way for smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and predictive maintenance in various industries.

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/what-is-web-4-0-explained/