WCAG 2.2 explained simply: the key criteria

WCAG stands for “Web Content Accessibility Guidelines” – the internationally recognized guidelines for accessible web content. Version 2.2 is the current state and forms the basis for most legal requirements. Those who understand them build better websites: more accessible, clearer, and often easier to find.

This article explains the four core principles and the most important criteria in everyday language. We offer auditing and implementation according to these criteria as part of our Accessibility service.

The four principles of the WCAG

All criteria fall under four principles. A website should be:

• Perceivable: Content must be accessible to all senses – for example, via alternative text or sufficient contrast.
• Operable: Everything must be usable without a mouse, with a clearly visible focus.
• Understandable: Language, structure, and operation must be easy to follow.
• Robust: Content must work reliably with different devices and assistive technologies.

The most important success criteria in everyday practice

In practice, it always comes down to the same points:

• Contrast: Text must stand out clearly from the background (at least 4.5:1 for normal text).
• Keyboard operation: Every function is reachable via Tab – with visible focus.
• Alternative texts: Images carrying information need a meaningful description.
• Labeled forms: Every field has a clear label, errors are easy to understand.
• Logical structure: Headings and order make sense even without the layout.
• Understandable links: Link texts say where they lead – no “click here”.

What’s new in 2.2

Version 2.2 primarily adds criteria that improve mobile use and operability: more easily reachable controls, visible focus, simpler authentication without memory tests, and consistent help options. So it is less about major overhauls and more about well-thought-out details that make the difference in everyday use.

Conformance levels: A, AA, AAA

The WCAG define three levels. A is the minimum, AAA the maximum. In practice – and as the basis of the common regulations – level AA is the target: a realistic, effective standard that removes most barriers without sacrificing creative freedom.

From the standard to a usable website

Ticking off criteria isn't enough – what matters is real usability. That's why we test automatically and verify manually with keyboard and screen reader. To learn how a complete audit works, read our article Accessibility Check & WCAG Audit. Clean implementation pays off twice: an accessible site is usually also faster and easier for search engines to read – we implement it directly in the code.

What the implementation costs

The effort depends on the starting point: if accessibility was considered from the beginning, targeted corrections are often enough; older sites may need more. We prioritize by impact so the biggest barriers fall first. In a first, no-obligation conversation, we give an initial assessment after a quick look at your site.