WebAssembly (Wasm) is a binary instruction format for a stack-based virtual machine that fills a critical gap in the web platform's capabilities. It doesn't replace JavaScript, but it does give developers a performant, low-level compilation target for their web applications. It also supports languages other than JavaScript, like C++, allowing them to run on the web at near-native speed.

If we see the web as your operating system, Wasm literally extends the capabilities of web browsers and adds an extra layer to web apps, which translates to a better end-user experience. If you've ever used Google Maps or Facebook on your browser, you've already used WebAssembly. Facebook for example, uses Wasm for its SQL client library in the browser.

Coding in Wasm's native language can be low-level and challenging. However, C++, one of the most efficient and widely-used languages, especially for high-performance tasks, can be compiled into WebAssembly, extending its web applications reach and making Wasm accessible to a wider audience.

Since our ideal user is a basketball fan, consider Wasm as the point guard of your web applications, facilitating communication between the frontend, backend, and other parts, strategizing to make the best use of resources, and increasing your applications' speed.

Let's start this Wasm journey with a simple 'Hello' program on C++. Don't worry; this code won't be executed. It's just a simple illustration for now.

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#include <iostream>

using namespace std;

int main() {

​

  // Just to illustrate, this program won't do much

  cout << "Welcome to WebAssembly!";

  return 0;

​

}