Blockchain operates through a network of computers. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum can operate without a centralized regulation. It enables fast processing and lowers transaction fees through a decentralized exchange of cryptocurrencies.

A decentralized exchange of cryptocurrencies involves the transfer of control to a distributed network. There is no individual, organization, or centralized entity in-between. Users have their own private keys to access the asset stored in the blockchain. It makes the entire process transparent and speedy with lower cost.

Data storage is within the computers across the network. Storage within the system is on nodes. When a new block gets added, the updated change happens along with the network. A wide range of applications helps to embed information. They are smart contracts and multi-signature transactions.

Advantage of a Decentralized Exchange of Cryptocurrencies

• The advantage of this technology is to remove the need for a trusted third party to enforce the execution of instructions.
• Automation of the process and simple auditing facility make the technology useful for business activities.
• All users retain control over the system collectively.
• It is not easy for hackers to steal data on the network. It helps in the safe and secure transfer of cryptocurrencies.

Decentralized and Centralized Exchange of Cryptocurrencies

The decentralized exchange of cryptocurrencies works on “Smart Contracts” to execute orders. Traders can preset their conditions for automatic payment transfer without an intermediary. Centralized exchanges require an intermediary, like banks, to manage the payment process, for which they collect a fee.

• Decentralized Exchanges using Blockchain Technology

The decentralized network does not require the participants to know one another. The electronic transactions are verified automatically, and recording is made on the network nodes using a cryptographic algorithm. There is no central authority or human intervention, such as banks, government, or financial institutions. Transaction time is lower, which improves its efficiency. They work on smart contracts for the execution of payment orders. The mobile wallet makes international payment easier as it uses distributed ledger technology. Transfer once made cannot be altered, tampered or reversed, making the payment process secure.

• Centralized Exchange through Banks

Centralized exchanges like the banks come under a central authority. It involves a number of intermediaries, such as a network of traders, asset managers, and staff. Each bank involved in the transfer of money maintains a ledger.  It involves a complex clearing and settlement process that increases the transaction cost and causes a delay in executing the transaction. Fees are high as each bank charges a remittance fee. Time taken to transfer the money is also lengthy.

Applying Decentralized Blockchain Solutions

The first decentralized cryptocurrency was Bitcoin. It was a revolutionary change in technology, as it has multiple uses in various industrial sectors.

Data collected in groups are known as blocks. These blocks come together as blockchain and are constantly updated. It is in the form of a network, which is a collection of computers that stores transactions. No one within the node can make changes to the data. They cannot alter any information as it is irreversible.

• Peer-to-peer technology allows peers to stay connected to the distributed network, and each peer gets access to the ledger.
• Ethereum brought a better technological solution through smart contracts, which use automatic execution of transactions.
• Ethereum introduced Proof-of-Stake (PoS), an advanced system to the Proof-of-Work (PoW).
• Hyperledger by the Linux Foundation unifies the blockchain technology with APIs, frameworks, and tools.
• Cryptographic quantum-proof algorithms make the entire system secure.
• All platforms have to comply with KYC and AML principles. By the Know Your Customer (KYC) principle, users have to declare information about their identity. The KYC is an Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measure. It removes system gaps that make the technology susceptible to money laundering.
• Ripple’s xCurrent product involves a two-way communicating protocol with real-time messaging.

However, decentralized digital ledger technology has its defects. It consumes too much energy. Unless the node quality is strong, the network cannot function properly. Scalability problems arise when there is a congestion of transactions, which block the performance of the network operation. Data, once written, cannot be reversed on the network.

The distributed ledger technology is just a decade old. There is still a long way to get a working standardized blockchain technology.

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