# WCAG standards — Web Accessibility (A11y)

Source: https://www.geekswithgeeks.com/en/accessibility/a11y-wcag

> Learn the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines—the industry standard.

## WCAG versions & levels

**WCAG 2.1** is the current standard (2.0 exists, 3.0 in draft). Three levels: **A** (basic), **AA** (enhanced—legal minimum in most regions), **AAA** (optimal). Each level has four principles: **P**erceivable, **O**perable, **U**nderstandable, **R**obust (POUR).

## POUR principles

**Perceivable**: users can see/hear content (color + text, captions). **Operable**: keyboard, voice, switch—no mouse-only interactions. **Understandable**: clear language, predictable design, error recovery. **Robust**: works with assistive tech (screen readers, voice control, etc.).

## Practical compliance

Most organizations target WCAG 2.1 AA. This requires contrast ratios of 4.5:1, keyboard navigation, alt text, proper forms, and ARIA where needed. AAA is ideal but not always required.

## Where to learn more

Visit **w3.org/WAI/WCAG21** for the full specification, **webam.org** for checklists, and **level access** for training materials.

## Compliance audit

Third-party audits provide formal compliance assessment. Useful for legal proof and improvement recommendations.