A paywall is a system that restricts access to certain online content, requiring users to pay a fee to view it. This model is commonly used by news websites, magazines, and other digital platforms to generate revenue. Users may encounter different types of paywalls, such as hard paywalls, which block all content unless a subscription is purchased, and soft paywalls, which allow limited access before requiring payment. Paywalls are often implemented to support quality journalism and content creation, as traditional advertising revenue has declined. By charging for access, publishers like The New York Times and The Washington Post aim to sustain their operations and provide valuable information to their audience.