Chapter . Introduction

At its simplest, Web 2.0 is the term used to describe the second generation of Web technologies, including social networking sites, blogs and wikis, which enable the Web to be used in a different, more interactive way than before. These technologies enable activities such as online networking, user involvement, creativity and online collaboration. The technologies also enable users to connect with a very large number of people in a short period of time at low cost.

The combination of newer technologies such as Ajax and CSS has enabled some websites – those described as Web 2.0 sites – to feature enhanced functionality, better storage of data and a richer user interface. For example, the Google maps application provides much ...

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