What are Decentralized VPNs?
Decentralized VPNs are tools and services that provide private and secure internet access by routing traffic through a distributed network of nodes rather than centralized servers. These solutions leverage blockchain or peer-to-peer technology to enhance privacy, reduce reliance on single points of failure, and resist censorship. Tools in this category include decentralized VPN protocols, node operators, client applications, and marketplaces for bandwidth sharing. The primary use cases involve protecting user anonymity, bypassing geo-restrictions, and securing data transmission for developers and end-users who require trustless and censorship-resistant connectivity. Key characteristics include distributed node infrastructure, cryptographic security, and often token-based incentives for node participation. Related categories include decentralized infrastructure and privacy-focused networking tools. Developers should consider decentralized VPNs when building applications that demand enhanced privacy guarantees or when integrating censorship-resistant network access into their products.
