What are intents and solvers? Outcome-based crypto orders

Intents and solvers separate the desired result of a crypto transaction from the route used to achieve it. An intent specifies the user's constraints. A solver searches for an execution path that satisfies them, potentially combining liquidity sources or matching opposing orders.

Depending on the system, a digital signature authorizes the instruction. A signed order is not interchangeable with unlimited token spending permission: allowances and execution conditions require separate checks. Solver participation does not guarantee that an order will fill.

Example

Maya offers 1,000 USDC for at least 0.4 WETH, with an instruction valid for ten minutes. A solver looks for a route through pools or opposing orders. If only 0.39 WETH remains after applicable costs, the order should stay unfilled rather than execute below the signed boundary. The amounts are hypothetical, not a current market quote.

Outcome-based execution can simplify routing while leaving contract, recipient and permission risks to assess. Different intent protocols have different enforcement and trust models; the label alone is not a safety certificate.

Source

CoW Protocol