> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.dem.exchange/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.dem.exchange/community/glossary/decentralized-applications.md). # Decentralized Applications Decentralized applications, commonly known as dApps, are applications that operate on distributed networks, particularly blockchain systems. In contrast to centralized applications controlled by a single entity, dApps leverage a network of nodes or computers, ensuring equal participation in network maintenance and decision-making processes. Decentralized applications (dApps) boast features that set them apart. These include immutability, securing transactions from alterations; transparency, achieved through open core codes and transaction visibility; ownership, granting users control over assets stored as tokens; and open-source nature, fostering collaboration and innovation in ongoing development. ### **Use Cases:** 1. Empowering Users: DApps empower users by providing more control over their data, reducing reliance on centralized entities, and minimizing the monetization of user data. 2. Financial Inclusion (DeFi): DeFi DApps enable users to access financial services without traditional intermediaries, allowing activities such as lending, borrowing, trading, and earning interest on cryptocurrencies. 3. Gaming: DApps are employed in gaming to create decentralized and transparent gaming experiences, allowing players to own and trade in-game assets, participate in provably fair competitions, and earn crypto tokens as rewards. 4. Governance and Voting: DApps facilitate decentralized governance systems, such as decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), enabling transparent and secure voting processes. Participants can vote on proposals and collectively govern the direction of a project. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://guide.dem.exchange/community/glossary/decentralized-applications.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.