Should I use my main ICP account to control my app or a separate account?

Developers
1

Do you advise to use my main ICP account to control my own app or to create a separate account controlling my app?

2

ChatGPT 4o gave quite a definite answer:

When developing and deploying a decentralized application (dApp) on the DFINITY Internet Computer, it is generally advisable to use a separate account specifically for controlling and managing your dApp. Here are some key reasons for this approach:

  1. Security: Using a separate account helps to mitigate risks. If your main account gets compromised, the attacker won’t have direct access to your dApp’s control and funds. Similarly, if your dApp account is compromised, your personal assets and information remain secure.

  2. Organization: Keeping your personal assets and dApp assets separate can help you manage and organize your finances and operations more effectively. This distinction can simplify accounting, auditing, and reporting.

  3. Access Control: It’s easier to manage permissions and access control if the dApp is under a dedicated account. You can clearly define who has access to what, and adjust permissions without affecting your main account.

  4. Scalability: As your dApp grows, you may need to delegate control or grant access to different team members or smart contracts. A separate account dedicated to the dApp can be structured to accommodate such changes more easily.

  5. Professionalism: Using a separate account can present a more professional image, especially if you are planning to attract users, investors, or collaborators. It shows a clear boundary between personal and business activities.

  6. Legal and Compliance: In some jurisdictions, keeping business and personal accounts separate is not just good practice but a legal requirement. It can simplify compliance with regulations and make it easier to handle any legal issues that might arise.

Here are some steps you can follow to set up a separate account for your dApp:

  1. Create a New Account: Set up a new ICP account specifically for your dApp.
  2. Transfer Initial Funds: Transfer the necessary initial funds from your main account to the new account to cover deployment and operational costs.
  3. Deploy dApp: Use the new account to deploy your dApp on the Internet Computer.
  4. Manage Access: Configure access controls and permissions to ensure that only authorized users can manage the dApp.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the security, manageability, and professionalism of your dApp on the DFINITY Internet Computer.

1 Like
3

Yes, it’d be important to use a separate account.