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Glossary

DApp

Plain-language definition

A DApp (decentralized application) is software whose core logic runs on a blockchain via smart contracts, rather than on servers controlled by one company.

How it works

A DApp typically pairs a normal web interface with smart contracts deployed on a public blockchain that handle its rules and store its state. Users interact by connecting their own wallet and signing transactions, so they keep custody of their assets and the back-end logic runs on the network instead of a private server.

Why it matters

Because the contracts are public and run on a decentralized network, a DApp can keep operating without a central operator and is harder to censor or shut down. The trade-off is that bugs in the contract code are exposed to everyone and, once deployed, can be hard to fix.

Example

A decentralized exchange that lets you swap tokens straight from your wallet is a common type of DApp.

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