What is DMOZ?
DMOZ (short for “Directory Mozilla”) was a web directory operated between 1998 and 2017. It was founded by Netscape, who named it after the Mozilla open-source browser project. It contained an extensive directory of websites created and maintained by volunteer editors. DMOZ aimed to provide a comprehensive and reliable source for quality web content, which could be used as an alternative to search engines like Google.
The Open Directory Project (ODP)
The Open Directory Project (ODP), as it was known, had a hierarchical structure consisting of numerous topical categories arranged in a tree format. This made it easier for users to find relevant websites based on their interests or requirements. In addition, the ODP also featured user ratings and reviews which provided feedback regarding the quality of various websites listed in the directory.
All entries in the ODP were maintained by editors who volunteered their time to review submissions and ensure they met certain criteria before being added to the directory. This ensured that only quality sites were included and users could confidently use the directory when gathering information or conducting research online.
By 2017, DMOZ had grown into one of the largest human-edited directories on the internet, with millions of entries worldwide. However, due to increasing costs associated with maintaining such a large database, Netscape closed its Open Directory Project and ended its operations as a web directory service provider.