How does a decentralized exchange handle order matching without a central authority?

@liam 

A decentralized exchange (DEX) handles order matching without a central authority by relying on various mechanisms within their network. These mechanisms typically include:

1. Smart Contracts: DEXs are often built on blockchain platforms like Ethereum, which allows the use of smart contracts. Smart contracts execute the order matching process in a decentralized manner. They contain predefined code that automatically matches buy and sell orders, eliminating the need for a central authority.
2. Peer-to-peer (P2P) Networking: DEXs employ a peer-to-peer network architecture where participants connect directly to each other rather than through a central server. This enables users to interact and execute trades directly between themselves. This P2P network eliminates the need for a central authority to validate and match orders.
3. Order Books and Decentralized Storage: DEXs use an order book system to match buy and sell orders. Order books record and display the pending orders and their prices. Instead of relying on a central authority to store and maintain these order books, DEXs utilize decentralized storage systems like IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) or blockchain technology to store and distribute the order book data across the network.
4. Off-chain Order Books: Some DEXs use off-chain order books to enhance scalability and reduce transaction costs. In this approach, the order matching process occurs off-chain through peer-to-peer messaging protocols. Orders are only executed on-chain when settlement is required. Off-chain order books can be implemented using various techniques such as state channels or sidechains.
5. Automated Market Making (AMM): Some DEXs, instead of using order books, employ an AMM model based on liquidity pools. These pools contain various cryptocurrency tokens and their prices are determined by mathematical algorithms. When a trade occurs, the AMM algorithm adjusts the token ratios within the pool to maintain equilibrium. AMM-based DEXs eliminate the need for traditional order matching mechanisms altogether.

By leveraging these decentralized mechanisms, DEXs ensure that order matching occurs securely and autonomously without the need for a central authority, thereby granting users greater control over their assets and improved privacy.