Most onchain activity happens through apps — also known as decentralized applications or “dapps” — that let you swap, play, borrow, and more.
Dapps can offer advantages over traditional apps, like greater data security, transparency, user control, and access. If you have a crypto wallet and an internet connection, you’re only a few clicks away from being able to connect to thousands of dapps.
What are dapps?
Dapps are software applications that run on blockchain networks. Some are for DeFi services, like lending and borrowing, while others have a variety of non-financial purposes, like social media and gaming.
Common benefits and characteristics of dapps include:
- Accessibility: No signup or email required — you can get started using dapps with just a wallet.
- Efficiency: Dapps use smart contracts to handle user transactions automatically. No waiting for a supervisor, business hours, or a credit check!
- Security: Resistant to single points of failure, dapps provide enhanced security that helps protect sensitive customer data.
- Sovereignty: Decentralized apps let users manage their data and assets directly with their private keys, providing enhanced privacy.
- Transparency: Dapp transactions and data are publicly verifiable, and can be viewed using block explorer tools like Etherscan.
Examples of decentralized apps
There’s a dapp for just about everything. Here’s a list of some popular ones to help get you started onchain:
- Decentralized exchanges like Uniswap web app
- Token launchers like Flaunch
- NFT marketplaces like OpenSea
- Crypto wallets like Uniswap wallet
- Lending and borrowing apps like Morpho
- Social media platforms like Warpcast
- Global payments tools like Alchemy Pay
Getting started with dapps
Connecting your wallet to a dapp is simpler than it sounds — and once you’ve done it, it just clicks. Follow these three steps to get started:
1. Find a dapp
Instead of browsing Apple’s App Store or Google Play, check out websites like DappRadar that are specifically designed to help you discover thousands of dapps. Whether you’re into collecting artwork, swapping tokens, or exploring other ways to use crypto, there’s a dapp for that. Filter your search by category to make things easier.
2. Connect a wallet
To use a dapp, you’ll need a crypto wallet that supports the same network the app runs on. Most dapps make it easy to connect by offering a QR code, button, or similar prompt. Once connected, any transactions you make in the dapp will show up in your wallet.
Tip: Most dapps show which network(s) they run on — look for the name or logo near the top of the screen or in the settings.
3. Add some funds to your wallet
To take full advantage of a dapp’s features, your wallet needs to have enough crypto to cover network costs (or “gas fees”) and engage in any in-app transactions. If your wallet is empty or has a low balance, you can either buy crypto directly through your wallet with fiat onramps or transfer crypto from another wallet.
The wallet built for an onchain world
When you explore DeFi, it’s important to keep your assets secure and in your control.
Uniswap wallet is both simple and secure. It connects you to apps on all major chains including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Base, Unichain and more. Plus, it works seamlessly with the Uniswap web app to create the best onchain swapping experience.
Swap smarter with Uniswap wallet, available for iOS, Android, and Chrome extension.
