Cross-Chain Bridge Technology enables transactions to be executed between blockchains. It allows two relatively independent blockchains to work together, in other words, communicate with each other. Thus, the limitations of a single chain can be avoided.
According to an article published by PPIO on Medium, Cross-Chain Bridges can be divided into two categories, isomorphic cross-chains, and heterogeneous cross chains. The security mechanism, consensus algorithm, network topology, and block generation verification are consistent in isomorphic cross-chains. The cross-chain interaction of isomorphic cross-chains is simple, while the cross-chain interaction of heterogeneous chains is complex, which usually requires a third-party service. Because designing a mechanism of direct inter-chain interaction is a challenging task to achieve.
Tendermint is a solution that combines the network and consensus layers of a blockchain so that developers focus on application development as opposed to the complex underlying protocol. So, Tendermint saves hours of development time and simplifies the process. Inter-Blockchain Communication Protocol (IBC) leverages Tendermint to enable the connection between blockchains and allows data transfer. Projects with Cross-Chain Bridge Technology allow blockchains to keep their independence and decentralization, while contributing to the development of blockchains by solving issues such as scalability and communication.
Cosmos: A Cross-Chain Technology
Cosmos is a decentralized and scalable blockchain ecosystem consisting of independent parallel blockchains that can work with each other. Blockchains operate within the framework of rules within their own networks and cannot communicate with other blockchains. Cosmos defines itself as the public network of blockchains and aims to prove the interoperability of blockchains, enabling them to communicate and transfer data between each other.
Cosmos was developed in partnership with the blockchain development platform Tendermint and the Blockchain Communication Protocol IBC. Thanks to Cosmos, which enables communication and data transfer, blockchains operate with each other without losing their independent status.
