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How Does a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) Differ from a Centralized Exchange (CEX)?

A Centralized Exchange (CEX) is operated by a single company that holds user funds in custody, acting as an intermediary. A Decentralized Exchange (DEX) allows users to trade directly from their own wallets using smart contracts, eliminating the need for an intermediary and giving users self-custody of their funds.

DEXs typically offer less regulatory oversight but greater censorship resistance than CEXs.

How Does the ‘Fee Structure’ Differ between a Centralized Exchange (CEX) and a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) AMM?
How Do Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Differ from Centralized Exchanges in Their Vulnerability to State-Sponsored Attacks?
How Do Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Regulations Impact CEX Users?
What Is the Counterparty Risk When Using a Centralized Exchange for Staking?