What is WebGL (Web Graphics Library)?

WebGL, short for Web Graphics Library, is essentially a tool you use to create 3D graphics on a webpage. But unlike your usual photo or video, these aren’t static 3D images; they’re fully interactive, meaning you can zoom in, zoom out, rotate, and more.

Note: The page is part of the browser vocabulary to help you understand technical terms.

Why is WebGL Important

Imagine browsing a website to shop for a new pair of shoes. With standard 2D images, you can only see so much. But if the website uses WebGL, you can rotate the shoe, zoom in to see the detail of the stitching, and truly inspect the shoe from all angles just like you would do in a physical store.

How Does WebGL Work?

WebGL is built into your web browser, and it taps into the power of your computer’s graphics processing unit (GPU). In the world of gaming, GPUs are critical for rendering fast, complex graphics, and that’s essentially what you’re doing when you’re running WebGL on a webpage.

Understand WebGL with Example

Imagine you’re playing a simple, interactive online game. Let’s say it’s a racing game. The game is fully 3D, and as you steer the car around bends, avoid obstacles, and overtake opponents, everything flows smoothly with no lag or buffering. This immersive, responsive experience is all thanks to WebGL.

Without WebGL, your web browser would have to rely on your computer’s central processing unit (CPU) to render the game, which isn’t as efficient or powerful when it comes to graphics. The game might still run, but it would be slower, and the graphics wouldn’t be as smooth or detailed.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, WebGL brings the power of 3D, interactive graphics to your web browsing experience. Whether you’re shopping, playing games, or exploring virtual realities, WebGL is working behind the scenes to make your experience richer, more interactive, and more engaging.