dApps, or decentralized applications, are a new type of software application that is built on top of a blockchain network. They are different from traditional apps in a number of ways, including:
Decentralized control: The most notable difference between dApps and traditional apps is the way they are controlled. Traditional apps are controlled by a central authority, such as a company or organization, while dApps are decentralized and operate on a peer-to-peer network. This means that no single entity controls the data or the rules of the network, and all participants have an equal say in how the network operates.
Smart contracts: dApps are built on top of smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into lines of code. Smart contracts automate the process of verifying and executing transactions, allowing dApps to operate in a trustless and autonomous manner.
Data storage: Traditional apps store data on a central server, which is controlled by the app developer or a third-party provider. In contrast, dApps store data on a blockchain network, which is distributed across a network of computers. This makes dApps more secure and resistant to tampering or censorship, as there is no single point of failure.
Transactions: Traditional apps rely on a centralized payment processor, such as a bank or a payment gateway, to handle transactions. In contrast, dApps use cryptocurrency or tokens to handle transactions, which allows for faster and cheaper transactions without the need for intermediaries.
Community control: dApps give the control to the community of users rather than a central authority, meaning the community has a say in how the application is operated and developed.
Transparency: dApps are transparent in the sense that all the data and transactions are recorded on the blockchain, making it more difficult to manipulate or censor the data.
Immutable: dApps once deployed on the blockchain cannot be altered by anyone, ensuring that the data and transactions are immutable and tamper-proof.
In summary, dApps are a new type of software application that is built on top of a blockchain network and utilizes smart contracts, decentralized control, data storage on blockchain, cryptocurrency or tokens for transactions, community control, transparency and immutability. These features make dApps different from traditional apps and provide a more secure, transparent and fair system.