# Decentralized see also : [[Decentralization]] 1. The structure where a network or service is [[Distributed (network)|distributed]] over a large group of people or operations, such as in a [[Peer-to-Peer (P2P)|peer-to-peer network]]. The advantage of a [[Decentralized|decentralised network ]]is the absence of a single point of failure. The Internet is a good example of a decentralised global network of computers. Terminology-wise however, a decentralised structure is slightly different from a [[Distributed (network)|distributed structure]]. 2. The term refers to the property of a digital system which is governed by a distributed set of [[Node(s)|nodes]] and not by some [[centralized]] authority. 4. A [[Decentralized|decentralized]] system is one that has no single head or group that completely controls it. In other words, there is a more or less even distribution of power among multiple parties rather than centralized control by one or a few parties. This can take place in a computer network, a [[Distributed (network)|distribution network]], or even a political system. 4. [[Decentralized Exchange (DEX)]] A [[Peer-to-Peer (P2P)]] exchange that allows users to buy and sell [[Crypto (cryptocurrency)|cryptocurrency]] and other assets without the control or fees of a central authority. Unlike central services like [[Coinbase.com|CoinBase]]. Decentralized Organization A [[Smart Contract]] based organization that uses automated rules to run without a central authority. Funding, voting, and more are all handled via platforms like [[Ethereum (blockchain)]]. 5. A state where there is no central control, power or function, or in reference to infrastructure, no central point of failure. [[Blockchain|Blockchains]] are politically [[Decentralized|decentralized]] (no one controls them) and architecturally decentralized (no infrastructural central point of failure) but they are logically centralized (there is one commonly agreed state and the system behaves like a single computer). 6. A form of organization which does not require any single party, group, or authority to control services. [[Bitcoin (blockchain)]] is a [[Decentralized|decentralized]] network because no company, government, or individual created or is in control of it. Bitcoin’s governance relies on the community and its code is [[Open Source]]. 7. The concept of a shared network of dispersed computers (or nodes) that can process transactions without a centrally located, third-party intermediary. 8. [[Decentralized]] is defined as a type of system where elements are spread out by some means, with decisions made from many points, and independence is preserved across the network. Decentralization is actually a combination of 3 parts making up a triangle. Structure: A system located in multiple places across a space, is a decentralized structure. Management: A system managed by my many equally powerful units, with no single ruling unit is a decentralized management. Independence: A system made up of independent units working together for a common purpose is a decentralized independence. Here are some examples of decentralized systems: The American-English language is a decentralized structure because it is spoken by millions of people across the globe. It is a decentralized management because every person can make up their own mind as to how they speak English. There is independence because you can speak English even if everyone around you speaks a different language. A forest is a decentralized structure because it is made up of thousands and thousands of trees each located some distance from each other. It has a bit of decentralized management because each tree grows in its own way. It has independence because tree can survive on its own despite the fact that they are all surviving as a group. Species of life are decentralized structures because each life form is located in its own space, separate from others. It is a decentralized management because each one manages its own livingness. It has independence because each life form can live on its own without others, to some degree. Decentralized systems have some advantages including: Resistance to [[Attack (hack)|Attack]]: If several units in the decentralized system are attacked, the system will stay up. Resistance to Problems: If several units in the decentralized system have problems or bugs, the system will remain active. Resistance to Manipulation: If several units in the decentralized system join together with harmful intentions, the system will remain intact and active.