# What is dApps?

> Decentralized Applications

They are digital applications that work on the blockchain and are open to everyone, without being dependent on a central authority.

## Overview
Unlike traditional applications, dApps run on a distributed network, not on a single company's servers. In this way, the control of the application is not in the hands of a single institution and it is very difficult to censor or shut it down. Transparency and security are the fundamental building blocks of these applications.

*Analogy: A traditional banking application is like a system where only the bank manager has the key to the safe; dApps, on the other hand, are like keeping the safe in a transparent box that everyone can see but no one can change on their own.*

## How it works
These applications work through smart contracts. Once the written codes are uploaded to the blockchain, they are processed automatically within the framework of predetermined rules.

## Where it is used
It is used in processes that require trust, such as financial transactions, digital identity management, games and voting.

## Commonly confused with
It can be confused with normal mobile applications; However, dApps keep data on the blockchain and not on a central server.

## Frequently asked questions
**What does it take to use dApps?**
Usually a crypto wallet and an internet connection is sufficient.

**Who rules?**
Nobody governs; rules are determined by codes and users on the network.


## Related terms
- [Smart Contracts](/en/dictionary/smart-contracts/)
- [Open Source](/en/dictionary/open-source/)
- [API](/en/dictionary/api/)

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Source: TreScout Dictionary · https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/dapps/