What Web directory means
A web directory is a website that organizes links to other sites, usually by category. Modern product directories are a narrower, more focused descendant of this older idea.
The general web directories of the early internet listed everything from recipe blogs to auto shops; today's product directories narrow that same idea down to software and startups specifically.
Not every web directory that still exists is worth submitting to. Many old-style general directories lost relevance and traffic long ago, even though the format itself is having a comeback in a more focused form.
Judge any web directory, old or new, by its current traffic and audience fit rather than by how long it has existed.
Why this matters for builders
Understanding the history helps you judge which directories still earn attention.
Mistake builders make often
Some builders assume any directory-style site is automatically outdated or low-value because the format is old, missing that focused, modern versions can still send real traffic.
What to do now
Read Why web directories are back, then browse Mydentify directories to see the modern, focused version of the format.