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.