Tokens from two separate blockchains can be traded between two parties via atomic swaps, which are automatic exchange contracts. This technique, also known as atomic cross-chain trading, eliminates the requirement for centralized third-party entities when carrying out trades. This approach, in a sense, protects the autonomy of cryptocurrency users while enabling trustless transactions that do not require the users to know one another and are free from counterparty concerns.
Atomic swaps are one of the only utterly decentralized trading methods because of their trustless, peer-to-peer nature.
Atomic swap is seen as a crucial blockchain mechanism since it does away with the necessity for intermediaries like cryptocurrency exchanges. This allows for the execution of cross-chain trades without the need for centralized trading platforms’ infrastructures. Furthermore, by eliminating mediators, atomic swap transactions are quicker, more inexpensive, and free of the security risks that come with custodial-based exchanges. All of these advantages hint at the autonomy that the atomic switch offers. In other words, since all trades are carried out directly from users’ personal wallets, individuals have more control over their assets.