> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.everstrike.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# DEX Mode vs. CEX Mode: Choosing Your Custody Approach

> Compare DEX mode (self-custody, you control your wallet) and CEX mode (Everstrike manages the wallet) to choose the right custody approach for you.

Everstrike gives you a choice over how your wallet is managed. In **DEX mode**, you connect your own wallet and keep full control of its credentials. In **CEX mode**, Everstrike creates and manages a wallet for you. Both modes give you access to the same markets, the same AI strategies, and the same trading features. The only difference is who holds the wallet keys. Choose the mode that matches your experience level and custody preferences.

## Mode comparison

| Mode | Wallet control | Best for |
| - | - | - |
| DEX mode | You control the wallet credentials (private key and recovery phrase) | Users who already have a Web3 wallet and want self-custody |
| CEX mode | Everstrike manages the wallet credentials | Users who prefer a managed experience or are new to Web3 |

## When to choose DEX mode

* You already use a Web3 wallet such as MetaMask or a WalletConnect-compatible wallet
* You want to remain in control of your private keys and recovery phrase at all times
* You are comfortable signing transactions and approving spending caps in your wallet
* You want the highest level of trustlessness: your funds are only moved when you sign a transaction
* You plan to interact with other on-chain protocols using the same wallet

## When to choose CEX mode

* You do not have an existing Web3 wallet and would prefer not to set one up
* You want to get started quickly without managing wallet credentials
* You are familiar with centralised exchange interfaces and prefer a similar experience
* You are comfortable trusting Everstrike with wallet management
* You want to focus on trading and AI strategies without dealing with wallet mechanics

![DEX mode: you hold the keys. CEX mode: Everstrike manages the wallet](https://mintcdn.com/everstrike-50e7a7f9/zD8Yl4qdQhHNoMT1/images/help/dex-vs-cex.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=zD8Yl4qdQhHNoMT1\&q=85\&s=8aa200d65bab15374f9e2a3a00ee023d)

DEX mode and CEX mode at a glance.

> [!NOTE]
>
> You can switch between DEX mode and CEX mode at any time from your account settings. Switching modes does **not** affect your open positions, trading balances, or funds: everything carries over seamlessly.

> [!WARNING]
>
> If you use DEX mode, back up your wallet's recovery phrase immediately and store it somewhere safe and offline. Everstrike has no access to your private keys and **cannot recover a wallet you no longer control**. Losing your recovery phrase means permanent loss of access to that wallet's funds.


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