Decentralized systems are networks where control and decision-making are distributed among multiple participants rather than being concentrated in a single central authority. This structure enhances security and resilience, as there is no single point of failure. Examples include blockchain technology and peer-to-peer networks, which allow users to interact directly without intermediaries. In decentralized systems, each participant typically has equal authority and can contribute to the network's operation. This promotes transparency and trust, as all actions are recorded and visible to everyone involved. Such systems are often used in applications like cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.