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Architecture where control and operation are distributed across multiple independent nodes.

Definition

Decentralization distributes storage, computation, or governance across nodes, reducing reliance on a single operator. Privacy properties vary: transparency of some systems can also increase exposure.

In plain English Architecture where control and operation are distributed across multiple independent nodes.

Why this matters

Why it matters: Decentralized designs can reduce platform lock-in but may complicate deletion and accountability.

Example

Example: Federation distributes hosting across instances; blockchain replicates data across nodes, requiring careful privacy controls.