> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://eth-limo.gitbook.io/documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://eth-limo.gitbook.io/documentation/introduction/what-is-a-dwebsite.md).

# What is a dWebsite?

🧱 THE FOUNDATION

A dWebsite, or decentralized website, is a new breed of internet site built on technologies like Ethereum and IPFS (InterPlanetary File System), which decentralize hosting and control. Unlike traditional websites stored on single servers, dWebsites are distributed across numerous nodes, enhancing security, privacy, and resistance to censorship.

#### 🛠 How We Build

The construction of dWebsites involves several key technologies and steps:

1. **ENS (Ethereum Name Service)**: This is how we assign readable names to complex Ethereum blockchain addresses, making the decentralized web more accessible. For example, 'website.eth' could be an ENS name.
2. **eth.limo**: A service that allows regular web browsers to access dWebsites without needing specialized software. Adding '.limo' to an ENS name, like 'website.eth.limo', connects users to the dWebsite via a conventional browser.
3. **Decentralized Storage**: Instead of relying on a single server, dWebsites are hosted on peer-to-peer storage networks. IPFS is the most common choice, but content can equally live on [Arweave](/documentation/advanced/arweave-arns.md) (permanent, pay-once storage), [Swarm](/documentation/swarm/hosting-on-swarm.md) (Ethereum's native storage layer), or even [directly on chain](/documentation/advanced/onchain-data-urls.md) for small artifacts.
4. **Smart Contracts**: These are used to create dynamic functionalities within dWebsites, from user interactions to backend processes, all secure and decentralized.

By weaving together these elements, we craft dWebsites that not only push the envelope on what web experiences can be but also champion user empowerment, security, and the open web.