What is the primary purpose of web accessibility?

The primary purpose of web accessibility is to ensure that websites and applications are usable by people with disabilities. This objective is grounded in the principle that everyone, regardless of their abilities, should have equal access to information and functionalities available on the web. By focusing on accessibility, web developers and designers create products that can be navigated and understood by individuals who may have visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments.

Accessibility encompasses a range of practices such as providing text alternatives for non-text content, enabling keyboard navigation for those who cannot use a mouse, and ensuring that content is perceivable and operable for all users. This commitment not only aligns with legal requirements in many jurisdictions but also fosters an inclusive digital environment, allowing diverse populations to participate fully in online experiences.

Other options, while they may seem related, do not capture the essence of web accessibility. Ensuring usability for all users is a broader goal that includes accessibility as a key component. Enhancing website speed and performance deals with technical optimization rather than inclusivity. Increasing website traffic is a marketing objective that does not inherently consider the needs of users with disabilities.