A decentralized system is a network structure where control and decision-making are distributed among multiple participants rather than being concentrated in a single central authority. This approach enhances resilience and reduces the risk of failure, as no single point of control can disrupt the entire system. Examples of decentralized systems include blockchain technology and peer-to-peer networks. In a decentralized system, each participant can operate independently while still contributing to the overall functionality of the network. This allows for greater transparency and collaboration, as all participants can access and verify information. Decentralization is often associated with increased security and privacy, as it minimizes the chances of data manipulation or unauthorized access.