Glossary
DApp (Decentralized Application)
16/04/2026
A DApp (Decentralized Application) is an application whose backend logic runs on a decentralized blockchain via smart contracts, rather than on centralized servers controlled by a company. The frontend may be a normal website, but the core logic is on-chain.
Key properties
- Open source — smart contract code is typically publicly verifiable
- Permissionless — anyone can interact without registration or approval
- No downtime — as long as the blockchain runs, the DApp works
- No single point of control — no company can freeze or shut it down unilaterally
Categories of DApps
| Category | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| DeFi | Financial services (lending, trading) | Uniswap, Aave |
| NFT platforms | Digital collectibles | OpenSea |
| Games | On-chain game logic | Axie Infinity |
| Bridges | Cross-chain asset transfer | Various |
DApps and mining
Miners don't typically interact with DApps directly. However, DApp activity on Ethereum and similar chains generates transaction fees — which, for Proof of Work chains, go to miners as part of the block reward.
High DApp usage = more transactions = higher fees for miners.
