> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.xrdev.app/mixed-reality-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.xrdev.app/mixed-reality-docs/webxr-lessons/3d-on-the-web/concepts/what-is-webgl.md).

# What is WebGL?

**3D JavaScript engines** like **ThreeJS** and **BabylonJS** use WebGL to render to Canvas to make it easier for JavaScript developers who are not an expert in **computer graphics**. [WebGL](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WebGL) is a is a **cross-platform**, royalty-free web standard for a low-level 3D graphics JavaScript API, or *programmable interface*, for drawing interactive **2D** and **3D** graphics in web pages. WebGL connects your web browser up to your device’s **graphics card**, providing you with far more graphical processing power than is available on a traditional website.

{% hint style="info" %}
To use WebGL capabilities, you need a device and a browser that supports it. You can check which **browsers support WebGL** at [caniuse.com](https://caniuse.com/?search=WebGL) by searching for WebGL.
{% endhint %}

According to caniuse.com, **98.16% of the internet users** globally are using **WebGL 3D Canvas graphics capable device and browser**. 

Unlike most **Web APIs**,  WebGL is designed and maintained by the non-profit [Khronos Group](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khronos_Group) and not World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). [WebXR Device APIs](https://www.w3.org/TR/webxr/) and other related APIs to create a 3D experience like Gamepad API are part of [W3C](https://www.w3.org/).

To learn more check out [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WebGL), Khronos [WebGL Wiki](https://www.khronos.org/webgl/wiki/) or the official [Knronos WebGL Repository](https://github.com/KhronosGroup/WebGL).


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