Module 4.1

Decentralized Applications (dApps) Overview

A decentralized application (dApp) is an application that runs on a decentralized network (like Ethereum) rather than a single server. Unlike traditional web apps, dApps often have a smart contract backend (onchain) and a frontend that interacts with those contracts. Because the core logic and data are on a blockchain, dApps inherit the properties of transparency, trustlessness, and immutability.

For users, interacting with a dApp typically means using a web browser or mobile interface that connects their crypto wallet to the application. When they “log in” with a wallet they are not providing a username/password but rather cryptographically proving ownership of an address. Any actions they take (pressing buttons on the UI) may trigger blockchain transactions that they must confirm with their wallet.

Bittrees and dApps: Bittrees team members will use or reference several dApps as part of
operations. We’ll cover a few important ones:

Financial dApps (DeFi – Decentralized Finance)
DAO governance dApps
Utility dApps for blockchain data, or specialized tools like token trackers.
NFT management or minting platforms

Understanding dApps is akin to understanding specialized software in a company. Instead of a centralized SaaS product with an account login, you have these blockchain-based apps where your wallet address is your identity and key. They often provide services analogous to traditional finance or organizational tools, but in a decentralized manner.

Module 4.2 -- DeFi Example – Aave (Lending/Borrowing Platform)