In the period from 1980 to the present, the rise of the internet and associated technologies has radically altered the landscape of American society. The development of various technologies has dramatically influenced how Americans communicate, share information, and conduct business. This period also saw the emergence of major tech companies that would dominate the industry.
Which of the following technological advancements, introduced in the late 1990s, played a crucial role in the formation of social media platforms that have since become integral to communication in the 21st century?