What is dApp (Decentralized Application)?
A decentralized application is software whose core logic runs on a blockchain via smart contracts rather than a centralized server. The frontend is usually still a normal web or mobile app, but state, payments and access control are enforced on-chain.
Why dApp (Decentralized Application) matters
Understanding dApp (Decentralized Application) is part of building a solid mental model of how Bitcoin, blockchain and Web3 systems actually work. Concepts in the Ethereum category sit at the foundation of the broader stack — get them right and the rest is far easier.
Learn this interactively
Reading the definition is a start. ZeroToBlock teaches concepts like dApp (Decentralized Application) through hands-on, browser-based simulations. Build the mental model by actually using it:
- Bitcoin 101 — interactive fundamentals course
- Bitcoin Proof of Work — mining, hashing and consensus
- Browse all interactive blockchain courses
Related terms
- Smart Contract — Code on a blockchain that automatically enforces its rules.
- Web3 — An umbrella term for blockchain-based, user-owned internet applications.
- Ethereum — A programmable blockchain that supports smart contracts.
More ethereum terms
- DeFi (Decentralized Finance) — Financial services built from smart contracts.
- EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) — The execution environment for Ethereum smart contracts.
- Gas — The unit measuring computational cost on Ethereum.
- NFT (Non-Fungible Token) — A unique, non-interchangeable token on a blockchain.
- Solidity — The most popular programming language for Ethereum smart contracts.
- DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) — An on-chain organization governed by token holders.
- DEX (Decentralized Exchange) — A smart-contract-based trading protocol.
- AMM (Automated Market Maker) — A pricing formula that replaces order books.
Keep exploring
Continue with the full blockchain glossary — 136 terms in total — or read the developer blog and FAQ for deeper context.