Interoperability
Interoperability is the ability of blockchain networks and applications to exchange data and value across systems, enabling cross-chain use cases.
Interoperability spans token transfers, messaging, and shared state. Techniques include trusted custodial bridges, light-client relays, atomic swaps via HTLCs, and standardized messaging formats.
"Atomic swaps exchange assets across chains without custodians, using hashlocks and timelocks."
"Bridges lock assets on one chain and mint representations on another; security depends on the bridge model."
Standards and interfaces improve compatibility across wallets, dApps, and chains. Formal proposals (like EIPs) define formats, signatures, and data structures to reduce fragmentation.
"Wallet standards allow the same seed phrase to restore accounts across compatible implementations."
"Cross-chain messaging frameworks enable dApps to trigger actions on remote chains."
Related Terms
Bridge
→Infrastructure that enables moving assets or messages across blockchains.
Atomic Swap
→A trustless exchange of assets across chains using time-locked contracts.
Ethereum Improvement Proposal (EIP)
→The standard process for proposing and specifying changes or standards for the Ethereum ecosystem.
All terms and definitions may update as the Cryptionary improves.
