How Cross-Chain Bridges Work

Learn how source deposits, confirmations, route providers, destination delivery, and cross-chain risks fit together.

What you need to know

A bridge begins with a deposit on the source network. The provider waits for the required confirmations before execution.

Depending on the route, value can be transferred, released from liquidity, or exchanged into a supported destination representation.

A separate transaction delivers the quoted output on the destination network. The destination hash and asset contract can differ from the source.

Verify both networks, token contracts, destination address format, fees, minimum received, provider, and quote window.

Does a bridge erase the source transaction?

No. Source and destination blockchain records remain public.

Why are confirmations required?

Providers wait for source-chain finality before completing destination delivery.

Can every token use every bridge?

No. Support depends on the provider, networks, and exact token representation.