Cross-Chain & Bridging Guide
Master blockchain bridges: how they work, security risks, and how to transfer assets safely between chains. Interactive simulator and bridge comparison included.
What are Blockchain Bridges?
Blockchain bridges enable transferring assets and data between different blockchains that can't natively communicate. Think of them as currency exchange booths between different countries, but for crypto.
Bridges are essential because:
- Access DeFi on different chains - Use Arbitrum DeFi with ETH from mainnet
- Lower fees - Move to L2s for cheaper transactions
- Access exclusive apps - Some dApps only exist on specific chains
- Portfolio optimization - Find better yields on other chains
Types of Bridges
Bridges have different trust assumptions and tradeoffs. Understanding these is crucial for evaluating risk.
Bridge Types Explained
Trustless (Decentralized)
Try a Bridge (Simulation)
Experience how bridging works with this interactive simulator. Select chains and see estimated times and fees.
Bridge Simulator
Popular Bridges
Compare major bridges by volume, chain support, and security model.
Cross-Chain Messaging
These protocols enable not just asset transfers, but arbitrary data and function calls across chains.
Cross-Chain Messaging Protocols
Chainlink CCIP
Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol by Chainlink. Enterprise-grade messaging with multiple security layers.
IBC (Cosmos)
Inter-Blockchain Communication protocol for Cosmos ecosystem. Most battle-tested cross-chain standard.
Axelar
Universal overlay network connecting all blockchains. Supports EVM and non-EVM chains.
Bridge Security Risks
Bridges are the most exploited sector in crypto. Understanding past hacks helps avoid future risks.
Major Bridge Exploits
Over $1.8B lost to bridge hacks since 2022
Bridges are the riskiest part of DeFi. Always verify you're using official bridge contracts. Start with small test transactions. Consider using multiple bridges to diversify risk.
Before You Bridge
Use this checklist every time you use a bridge to minimize risk.
Bridge Safety Checklist
Choosing the Right Bridge
For Maximum Security
Use native L2 bridges (Arbitrum Bridge, Optimism Bridge). They're slower (7 days for withdrawals) but have the strongest security guarantees.
For Speed
Use Across or Stargate. Intent-based or liquidity-based bridges provide fast finality (minutes) with reasonable security.
For Multi-Chain
Use Stargate (LayerZero) or Axelar for bridging between many different chains including non-EVM chains.
For Large Amounts
Always use native bridges for large amounts. The extra wait time is worth the reduced smart contract risk. Consider splitting across multiple bridges.