When I first dipped into crypto, I was clueless about CEX and DEX. After some research, I got it: CEX (Centralized Exchange) is like Binance - sign up, verify, and let the platform handle trades. It's smooth sailing, but you're handing over control of your funds. Then there's DEX (Decentralized Exchange), like Uniswap - no sign-ups, no ID checks. Just plug in your wallet and trade directly. You're in the driver's seat, but it's a bit more complex. I started with CEXs to get the hang of things, then moved to DEXs for more control and privacy. Both have pros and cons, so it's all about what you want to achieve. New to crypto? Try both, learn at your own pace, and you'll be golden!