Atomic swaps and bridges serve similar purposes—enabling the exchange of assets across different blockchains—but they differ in a few ways:

*Atomic Swaps:*

* Decentralized: Atomic swaps are direct peer-to-peer exchanges, making them completely decentralized.
* No intermediary: Since atomic swaps don't involve a centralized entity or custodian, users maintain control of their assets.

*Bridges:*

* Centralized: Many bridges are custodial, meaning a third party holds the assets during the swap process.