What are decentralized applications (DApps)?

Last updated: 10/15/2025

What is a DApp?

A decentralized application (DApp) is an app that runs on a blockchain or other distributed ledger network.

Unlike traditional apps that rely on centralized servers, DApps operate through a network of distributed nodes — meaning no single authority controls the data or operations.

What Makes DApps Different?

Here are some quick facts to help you understand this “decentralized” concept:

Open-source code: Many DApps have parts of their code deployed on blockchain networks (like Ethereum), making them transparent and verifiable by anyone.
Immutable records: Instead of being stored on private cloud servers (like AWS), DApp user data is kept on a public, decentralized ledger, which cannot be altered once recorded.
User-controlled interactions: Users interact directly with smart contracts — the distributed code that powers DApps. Any action, such as a transaction or data update, must be confirmed by the network’s nodes before it’s finalized.
Tamper-proof verification: Once a transaction is confirmed on-chain, it becomes part of the permanent record. As long as the network itself is secure, no one can modify or delete it.

How to Use a DApp on KuCoin Web3 Wallet

You can easily explore and access DApps directly within the KuCoin Web3 Wallet:

1. Open the Discover page in your KuCoin Web3 Wallet app.

2. Search or browse trending or popular DApps.

3. Select the DApp you’d like to use.

4. Connect your wallet to start interacting securely on-chain.

Once connected, you can start swapping tokens, joining DeFi protocols, playing blockchain games, or exploring NFT marketplaces — all directly through your wallet.