Glossary
Sidechain
May 10, 2024 5:37:51 PM
What is a Sidechain in Blockchain?
A sidechain is a separate blockchain that runs in parallel to a main blockchain, also known as the parent chain. It operates independently but is connected to the main chain via a two-way peg, allowing assets to be securely transferred between the two chains.
Purpose of Sidechains
- Scalability: Sidechains can process transactions and smart contracts off the main chain, reducing congestion and improving transaction speeds.
- Innovation: Developers can experiment with new features or consensus mechanisms on sidechains without affecting the main chain.
- Interoperability: Sidechains enable different blockchains to interact with each other, facilitating asset transfers and communication.
How Sidechains Work
- Two-Way Peg: This mechanism allows for the transfer of assets between the main chain and the sidechain. It typically involves locking assets on the main chain and minting corresponding tokens on the sidechain.
- Simple Payment Verification (SPV): SPV allows users to verify transactions without downloading the entire blockchain, which is used in sidechains to prove the possession of assets.
Sidechain Examples
- Liquid Network: A Bitcoin sidechain designed for fast and confidential transactions among businesses.
- Loom Network: A sidechain for Ethereum that focuses on large-scale games and social apps.
Neo Blockchain and Sidechains
The Neo blockchain can utilize sidechains to offload transactions from the main network, enhancing scalability and allowing for the creation of specialized chains with unique features tailored to specific use cases.
Security Considerations
- Sidechain Security: The security of a sidechain is often less robust than the main chain, as it may have a smaller network of validators.
- Reliance on Main Chain: While sidechains operate independently, their security and functionality can still be dependent on the main chain’s integrity and stability.
Sidechain vs. Layer 2
- Sidechain: An independent blockchain with its own consensus mechanism and block validation process.
- Layer 2: A secondary framework or protocol built on top of an existing blockchain to enhance its scalability and efficiency, without creating a new blockchain.
Sidechains are a vital innovation in the blockchain ecosystem, offering a scalable solution for handling transactions and enabling new functionalities while maintaining a connection to the main blockchain.
