> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.bitdrive.finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.bitdrive.finance/introduction/what-is-a-dex.md). # What is a DEX? A DEX or decentralized exchange is a type of crypto exchange that facilitates peer to peer (P2P) crypto transactions without any third party involvement. Transactions are executed with the help of automated agreements meeting necessary conditions called smart contracts. **DeFi** (Decentralized Finance) is a new financial technology that is hosted primarily on blockchain. At its core, it seeks to decentralize traditional financial institutions such as banks and lending providers. It lets people from anywhere in the world use financial services regardless of whoever they may be. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.bitdrive.finance/introduction/what-is-a-dex.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.