Wikipedia is a free, multilingual online encyclopedia that operates on a collaborative model, allowing users worldwide to create, edit, and improve articles on a vast array of topics. Launched in 2001 by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, it is managed by the nonprofit Wikimedia Foundation and relies on volunteer contributions rather than professional editors. With millions of articles in over 300 languages, Wikipedia emphasizes neutrality, verifiability through reliable sources, and open access, making it one of the most visited websites globally. Despite occasional criticisms regarding accuracy and vandalism, it serves as a valuable educational resource, promoting knowledge sharing and democratizing information in the digital age.