Apps with superpowers
Ethereum applications might feel like regular apps. But behind the scenes they have some special qualities.
Once an app is published on Ethereum blockchain, it becomes unstoppable. This is because Ethereum network is decentralized across thousands of computers around the world. Nobody can take apps running on Ethereum down, because there is no single server to target. Ethereum is also neutral and so anyone anywhere in the world can use it or even connect to it and build their modifications on top of it.
What is a dapp?
Ethereum applications have their logic running on the Ethereum blockchain instead of in centralized servers. This is why they have often been called decentralized applications or dapps in short.
More private
You only need an Ethereum wallet to use any dapp. Your personal data are not required. This is the internet as it should have always been.
Globally accessible
Dapps aren’t governed by the rules of regions and app stores. Your access depends on having an internet connection – not where you live.
Cheaper services
Dapps are peer-to-peer. No intermediaries taking a cut means cheaper services.
Why does this matter
Ethereum apps can do stuff that just isn’t possible with traditional apps. Like lend money to a complete stranger with a guarantee that you’ll get your money back, plus interest. Without paying a “trustworthy” intermediary, like a lawyer, to handle the transaction.
There are apps for everything: gaming, finance, work, messaging, storage and more. With most apps you aren’t subjected to ads or limited by restricted access.
All you need is an Ethereum wallet and a little ETH to start using any ethereum app.
How does it work
Apps are powered by smart contracts — bits of code that live on the Ethereum blockchain. Unlike traditional apps, they don’t need a company to run them.
| Feature | Traditional apps | Ethereum apps |
|---|---|---|
| Who controls it? | A company | Nobody |
| Runs on | Private company servers | Public Ethereum blockchain |
| Can it be censored? | Yes | No |
| Who owns your data? | Usually not you | You own your data |
I
imrulo.eth
Serbia
I'm Cuban. I live in Serbia.From Cuba, opening a bank account was almost impossible. Paying online… even more difficult. When I arrived in Serbia, I thought everything would be easier. But in 2021, something happened to me that I'll never forget. A client asked me for a website. He paid me via PayPal. And PayPal… blocked my money. Just when I needed it most. That same day, I started looking for solutions. And I found Ethereum. That's when everything changed. Thanks to Ethereum, I was able to receive direct payments. Without banks. Without blocks. Without asking permission. Since then, I fell in love with Ethereum.Because it's not just money. It's freedom. It's being able to work and get paid, no matter where you come from. Every time I have something on another network, I try to move it to Ethereum.Because I believe in its potential. In its ability to give opportunities to people like me. People who come from countries where the system closes its doors to you. For me, Ethereum isn't just technology. It's a tool for living a better life.
April 26, 2025
How DeFi has made an impact on my life: Spent 8 years working regular jobs, perfect credit, no debt and all banks denied my loan apps after months of back n forth. In less than 30 minutes I took a loan agains't my ETH which allowed me to buy the land and start construction.
March 24, 2025
T
Thiago
Brazil
In emerging regions, instability, distrust, and social inequality are commonplace. Ethereum offers not only a technological alternative, but a philosophical one. It allows us to build systems where transparency is default, trust is programmable, and access is open.
April 15, 2025
Ethereum apps are like legos
When apps are all built on Ethereum, they are all compatible. A token for one app, will work on a completely different one. This is like being able to publish tweets to your facebook wall. In fact often you can reuse the same profile in many different Ethereum apps without the need to register everywhere separately.
Browse apps
We've listed some of the most popular apps out there so you can try one out. You'll need ETH and a wallet to get the most out of them.
Powered by Ethereum
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Dapp stands for decentralized applications. Those are applications built on blockchain networks like Ethereum. They are called decentralized because underlying network is decentralized.
Some applications do let you trade or buy crypto tokens, but not all apps are for that. If you are looking to buy your first tokens visit Get ETH.
Crypto wallet lets you hold your tokens and manage your Ethereum account. There many great wallets, each serving a different purpose. To find out which wallet is best for you, visit our list of wallets.
