What is Bridge?
A blockchain bridge connects two separate networks so users can move tokens or data between them. Bridges are notorious targets for hacks because they typically lock assets on one chain and mint a representation on the other, concentrating value behind their security model.
Why Bridge matters
Understanding Bridge is part of building a solid mental model of how Bitcoin, blockchain and Web3 systems actually work. Concepts in the Concepts category sit at the foundation of the broader stack — get them right and the rest is far easier.
Learn this interactively
Reading the definition is a start. ZeroToBlock teaches concepts like Bridge through hands-on, browser-based simulations. Build the mental model by actually using it:
- Bitcoin 101 — interactive fundamentals course
- Bitcoin Proof of Work — mining, hashing and consensus
- Browse all interactive blockchain courses
Related terms
- Layer 2 (L2) — A scaling network that settles to a Layer 1.
- Rollup — An L2 that posts transaction data to L1 for security.
- Sidechain — A separate blockchain pegged to another via a bridge.
More concepts terms
- Decentralization — Distributing control across many independent participants.
- Atomic Swap — Trustless cross-chain trade using hash time-locked contracts.
- Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) — A system that works even when some nodes lie or fail.
- Staking — Locking tokens to secure a network and earn rewards.
- Validator — A node that proposes and attests to blocks in PoS.
- Layer 1 (L1) — A base blockchain network with its own consensus.
- Optimistic Rollup — A rollup that assumes validity, with a fraud-proof challenge window.
- ZK-Rollup — A rollup that proves validity with zero-knowledge cryptography.
Keep exploring
Continue with the full blockchain glossary — 136 terms in total — or read the developer blog and FAQ for deeper context.