The blockchain space has grown far beyond a single ecosystem. With dozens of Layer 1 blockchains (Ethereum, BNB Chain, Avalanche) and Layer 2 networks (Arbitrum, Optimism, zkSync), the need to move assets and data across chains has become vital. This is where Multichain comes in—a cross-chain infrastructure protocol that connects otherwise isolated blockchain networks.

In this article, you’ll learn what Multichain is, how it works, and why it plays such a crucial role in the modular, multichain future of Web3.

What is Multichain?

Multichain is a decentralized cross-chain router protocol that enables secure and efficient transfers of assets between different blockchains. Originally launched as Anyswap, Multichain has become a cornerstone of the Web3 interoperability layer, connecting over 80 public chains with a trust-minimized design.

It supports both EVM-compatible and non-EVM chains, allowing users and developers to move assets across networks like Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Fantom, Avalanche, and more.

Multichain is designed for speed, decentralization, and security—making it a preferred solution for individuals, DAOs, DeFi protocols, and institutional platforms.

How Does Multichain Work?

At the heart of Multichain is a cryptographic system called Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC). Here’s how it works:

• When a user initiates a bridge transaction, Multichain validators (called SMPC nodes) jointly manage private key shares.
• These validators verify the transaction across both chains and sign it cooperatively.
• No single node can control funds or act independently, making the system highly secure and trust-minimized.

This system removes the need for wrapped tokens or centralized custody—two common vulnerabilities in many bridge protocols.

Key Features of Multichain

• Supports 80+ Blockchains

  One of the most widely integrated bridge protocols in Web3.

• Fast and Efficient Transfers

  Bridge transactions often complete in under 5 minutes.

• No Native Token Required

  Multichain does not require a governance or utility token to function.

• Open Source and Audited

  Source code available on GitHub and continuously audited for security.