In the world of cryptocurrency trading, exchanges are a fundamental platform for buying and selling digital assets. These exchanges are divided into two main types: **centralized (CEX)** and **decentralized (DEX)**. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, making it suitable for different categories of users.
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### **1. What is a Centralized Exchange (CEX)?**
Centralized exchanges are intermediary platforms managed by companies or central entities, where they hold users' funds and private keys on their behalf. Some of the most famous examples are: **Binance**, **Coinbase**, and **Kraken**.
#### **Advantages of CEX:**
- **Ease of use:** User-friendly interfaces for beginners with available technical support.
- **High liquidity:** They have a large trading volume, making it easy to execute trades quickly.
- **Ability to trade with traditional currencies (fiat):** Such as the dollar or euro.
- **Regulatory compliance:** They are subject to government oversight, providing some protection for users.
#### **Disadvantages of CEX:**
- **Security risks:** Since funds are held by a third party, they are vulnerable to hacking or freezing.
- **Identity verification requirements (KYC):** They require identity verification, reducing privacy.
- **Centralized control:** They may face disruptions due to technical issues or government decisions.