Dash is a decentralized blockchain and cryptocurrency designed to establish a rapid, cost-effective global payment network with decentralized characteristics. According to the project's white paper, Dash aims to enhance Bitcoin (BTC) by offering improved privacy and quicker transactions. Launched in January 2014 as a fork of Litecoin (LTC), Dash, derived from "digital cash," has expanded its capabilities over time. It features a two-tier network comprising incentivized nodes, including "masternodes," and decentralized project governance. Additional functionalities include InstantSend, enabling instant settlement of payments; ChainLocks, ensuring immediate immutability of the Dash blockchain; and PrivateSend, providing optional additional privacy for transactions.