AppChain
Also known as: Application-Specific Blockchain, Dedicated dApp Chain, Custom Blockchain
A blockchain optimized for a single decentralized application, enabling custom performance and governance features.
An AppChain is a specialized blockchain dedicated to a single decentralized application (dApp), offering tailored configurations in consensus, execution, and governance. Unlike general-purpose blockchains like Ethereum, AppChains provide better performance, customizability, and sovereignty for specific use cases. They often operate as Layer 1s or parachains, and use frameworks like Cosmos SDK or Substrate. AppChains are ideal for DeFi platforms, gaming, or enterprise solutions requiring high throughput, predictable fees, or isolated state machines. Examples include dYdX v4 on Cosmos and Moonbeam in the Polkadot ecosystem.