Interoperability in Web3
Web3, the third generation of the internet, is dedicated to achieving complete decentralization. As the backbone of cryptocurrencies, blockchain plays a crucial role in maintaining a secure, decentralized record of transactions. Smart contracts, built on blockchain, facilitate decentralized decision-making through voting by token-holding users. With the world transitioning into Web3, incorporating other technologies like Artificial Intelligence, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT) into the decentralized environment becomes essential, including their integration with decentralized applications (DApps).
However, a significant challenge arises: blockchain networks currently exist in silos, unable to communicate with each other effectively. This lack of interoperability leads to fragmented liquidity, as some token owners deploy on multiple blockchains to remain competitive or attract more users. In the era of Web3, interoperability becomes vital, referring to the seamless collaboration between different blockchains and various Web3 technologies using cross-chain protocols. Think of it as having several banks where Bank A can only send transactions to Bank A but not to Bank B or Bank D due to communication barriers.
Multichain and Cross-chain Bridge Technology
To address this challenge, some key technologies have emerged: these include Multichain and Cross-chain bridge technology.
Multichain technology enables the creation and operation of multiple independent blockchains within a single network. These interconnected chains facilitate seamless communication and asset or data transfers between different chains. A centralized exchange, such as MEXC, can host a wallet with USDT in four or more blockchains, allowing users to choose which blockchain to interact with seamlessly. Implementing multichain technology in DEX (Decentralized Exchange) enhances interoperability among DApps in the Web3 ecosystem.
On the other hand, Cross-chain bridge technology leverages a blockchain bridge, which serves as the bridge between different blockchain ecosystems. For this technology to function efficiently, the platform or project enabling interoperability deploys a bridge contract on the concerned networks and a bridge client (application software) installed on nodes to facilitate asset or data transfers. Cross-chain bridges can be categorized as trustless or trusted bridges.
Trustless bridges operate using smart contracts and algorithms, relying on the security of the underlying blockchain. These smart contracts are deployed on the concerned blockchains or networks. In contrast, trusted bridges, similar to centralized exchanges, depend on the reputation of the bridge operator as a trusted third party to facilitate the interoperability process.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Interoperability in Web3
Interoperability enables users to access various applications across different chains, seamlessly transferring data and assets within the decentralized space without switching wallets, and still preserves users’ and brands’ privacy.
Disadvantages
However, there are also challenges to consider. For trustless bridges, security remains a concern, especially when bridging from a blockchain with stronger security to a weaker one, there may be increased risks of potential attacks.
Additionally, governance challenges may surface when dealing with different blockchains, each with its distinct governance structures, consensus mechanisms, and decision-making processes. Integrating these blockchains to enable interoperability may lead to conflicts and potential delays in transactions.
Real-World Use Cases of Interoperability
RenVM
RenVM is a protocol that brings interoperability to decentralized finance (DeFi). It achieves interoperability by serving as a universal translator, converting the blockchain native format to the format needed by its destination chain. RenVM supports cross-chain exchanges between BTC, BCH, ZEC, FIL, DOGE, DGB, and LUNA to ETH and BSC blockchains, as well as Polkadot and Avalanche blockchains.
THORChain
THORChain is a decentralized, autonomous, and oracle-free bridge that connects blockchains and facilitates secure communication. The natural token of THORChain is RUNE. When users initiate a cross-chain exchange between two non-native crypto assets, the protocol system at THORChain automatically exchanges the token for RUNE, and the RUNE is exchanged again for the token the user is entitled to receive in return.
Chainlink
Chainlink is preparing to launch the Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP), an open standard for cross-chain communication. CCIP aims to establish a universal connection between hundreds of blockchain networks, private and public. This will enable cross-chain applications for all on-chain ecosystems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, interoperability is a crucial aspect of the Web3 internet or ecosystem, despite its present limitations. These limitations create opportunities for new projects to provide solutions and further enhance the decentralized ecosystem’s development. As Web3 continues to evolve, the quest for seamless interoperability will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future. Collaboration and the establishment of interoperability standards and protocols among various blockchain developers and core teams will be key to achieving a truly interconnected and decentralized digital world.
Personal Note From MEXC Team
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