Web 2.0

"Web 2.0 in a nutshell is about participation. About the internet growing to be a multi faceted content rich environment. Old websites are notorious for being bland static and clunky. Web 2.0 is a phrase coined to suggest the Internet has grown into it’s new version, one of dynamicism and user freedom."

Probably one of the most well known and popular examples of Web 2.0 is the social networking website, Facebook.
Facebook is a social network service and website launched in February 2004. The website has over 500 million active users as of July '10. Members can create their own profile, add other users as friends and keep in contact with others via messages and wall posts. Another popular aspect of facebook are photo uploads. Users can put their own photos online so other friends can see them, it's become an easy way to show friends and family members photos online, without the physical need to do so.
Facebook is a prime example as it allows users to actively participate by all the examples above, instead of just viewing the website.
A reason as to why the social networking site is so popular is because it's open to anyone above the age of 13 and above. It attracts pretty much anyone as it appeals in different ways. Reasons why you may use the website are to catch up with friends, to organise dates to go out or even to search an old friend or family member. It's practically an online yellow pages.
It's become such an iconic 'institution' that a film was made about it and the founder, called 'The Social Newtork' which did very well at the box office.