Introduction:

Blockchain Application $($DApp$)$: A blockchain application, or DApp, is a decentralized application that runs on a blockchain network. It leverages the blockchain's distributed nature and smart contract functionality to offer secure$,$ transparent, and tamper$-$resistant services without relying on central authorities.

Smart Contracts: Smart contracts are self$-$executing contracts with predefined rules encoded on the blockchain. They automatically execute agreed$-$upon actions when specific conditions are met. Smart contracts are a fundamental component of DApps, as they enable automation and enforce rules within the application.

DApp Architecture: DApps typically consist of three layers:

Blockchain layer: The underlying blockchain network $($e$.$g$.,$ Ethereum$)$ on which the DApp is built. It provides security, consensus, and data immutability.

Smart contract layer: This layer contains the smart contracts that define the rules and logic of the DApp's operation. Smart contracts often interact with the blockchain layer for reading and writing data.

Frontend layer: The user interface $($UI$)$ through which users interact with the DApp. It communicates with the smart contracts to fetch and update data.

Exercise $1$: Exploring DApp Architecture

Study the DApp architecture by researching existing DApps. Choose a popular DApp based on the Ethereum blockchain, such as decentralized finance $($DeFi$)$ applications like Compound or Uniswap.

Analyze the chosen DApp's architecture by examining its documentation, website, and available resources. Identify the blockchain layer, smart contract layer, and frontend layer.

Page $2$ of $3$

Take notes on the key components and interactions between layers. Create a diagram illustrating the architecture of the selected DApp, clearly representing the three layers and their relationships.

Conclusion:

In this lab, you have gained an understanding of blockchain applications $($DApps$)$ from a developer's or software engineering perspective. You explored the architecture of DApps, including the blockchain layer, smart contract layer, and frontend layer. By completing this lab, you have gained insights into the technical aspects of DApps and their interaction mechanisms.