Cross-Blockchain Interoperability Mechanisms: Bridges, Light Clients and Relayer Protocols
Keywords:
interoperability, cross-chain, blockchain bridges, light clients, relay protocol, IBC, decentralization, blockchain security, atomic swap, sidechainsAbstract
The article is devoted to the study and comparative analysis of mechanisms for enabling cross-chain interaction, including bridges, light clients, and relayer-based protocols. The relevance of the work is determined by the growing fragmentation of the blockchain ecosystem, where isolated networks cannot efficiently exchange data and assets, which restrains their widespread adoption. The novelty lies in a comprehensive approach to the classification and evaluation of existing solutions according to criteria such as security, decentralization, and efficiency. Within the work, the fundamental problems of interoperability and the architectural principles of various mechanisms are described. Centralized and decentralized bridges, protocols based on light clients (for example, IBC), and relayer networks are examined. Special attention is paid to the analysis of their trust models and attack vectors. The study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of these approaches to identify their strengths and weaknesses. To achieve this goal, methods of systematic analysis of the scientific literature, comparative analysis, and synthesis are used.The article will be useful for developers of blockchain systems, researchers, and architects of decentralized applications working on the creation of integrated and scalable solutions.
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