Pronunciation: [wˈɛb ɹˈɪŋ] (IPA) 
The spelling of "web ring" can be confusing as it combines two separate words into one. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /wɛb rɪŋ/ which represents the sounds of "w" as in "wet", "ɛ" as in "get", "b" as in "bed", "r" as in "red", "ɪ" as in "sit", and "ŋ" as in "sing". The word refers to a group of websites that are linked together to form a network, often around a common topic or interest.
A web ring is a network of websites that are thematically related and linked together in a circular or linear manner, forming a ring-like structure. It is a collaborative effort by website owners who share similar interests, topics, or hobbies. The primary purpose of a web ring is to provide easy and convenient navigation for visitors, allowing them to browse through multiple websites within a specific subject area.
Typically, a web ring is managed by a central website, known as the ringmaster or hub, which is responsible for organizing and maintaining the ring. This hub acts as a central directory, providing a list of member websites and their corresponding navigation links. Each member site displays a small piece of code, often a banner or button, that allows visitors to navigate to the next or previous website in the ring.
Web rings are a popular concept among niche websites, as they enable site owners to increase visibility and reach a wider audience within their target market. They also foster a sense of community and collaboration among website owners with shared interests. By participating in a web ring, site owners can benefit from increased traffic, improved search engine rankings, and cross-promotion opportunities.
While web rings were more prevalent in the early days of the internet, they still exist today, although in smaller numbers due to the rise of search engines and other advanced web navigation tools. However, web rings remain an essential part of internet history, representing a milestone in website collaboration and networking.
The term "web ring" was coined by Carl Steadman, the co-founder of a web-based company named Organic Online in the early 1990s. The term was inspired by the concept of a ring, referring to a circular shape or structure, and the term "web", indicating the World Wide Web.
In the early days of the internet, when search engines were not as advanced as they are today, web rings became a popular method for website owners to connect with similar or related websites. These interconnected websites formed a ring-like structure, where visitors could easily navigate from one site to another within the ring. The term "web ring" was used to describe this interconnected network of websites, enabling users to browse multiple websites smoothly.
