Introduction

In simple words Token bridges connect different blockchains to generate derivatives or converted tokens, also known as Wrapped, Pegged or Bridged assets that serve to represent those assets.
By doing so the different blockchains can interact with each other. This is also where the term Interoperability is coming from. So if you've ever seen a wrapped token, like for example $wBTC, that's what that is. The concept behind this is to take your Bitcoin ($BTC) and "wrap" it in an ERC-20 contract to give it Ethereum token capabilities.

Why would you use a token bridge?
There are blockchain networks that can be faster or charge less for transactions than others. Other blockchain networks might just have dApps built on top of them that provide particular features that the other blockchain just doesn't. For instance, such a dApp might accept a Wrapped asset from another blockchain but not that blockchain's original asset. It would then be required to bridge your token.

A future where Web3 is interconnected encompasses blockchain bridges for:

• Sending tokens to a dApp that is running on a different blockchain.
• Perform transactions on a blockchain that is more scalable, with lower transaction costs and faster transaction processing than the existing blockchain.
• Run dApps across various blockchain networks to make it easier for users to switch between them.
  

"We build too many walls and not enough bridges." 
- Isaac Newton

What kinds of token bridges are there?

Trustless Bridges/Non-Custodial

• There are trustless decentralized bridges available, and using them gives you complete control over your funds. Networks validate transactions on these bridges, making them function like a blockchain.
• The problem with trustless bridges is that since they perform and validate requested transactions, they are not held accountable when problems arise. The processing of these transactions are not governed by a central authority.

Bridges Based on Trust/Custodial

• In general, these bridges are quick and cost less, but they are more centralized. Accordingly, the parties using the bridge must have their trust.
• To bridge your cryptocurrencies/tokens to a cryptocurrency/token on a different blockchain, you must hand over your control over it.

Are token bridges safe?
Wherever new technology is used there is always the risk of blind spots or weaknesses. Let’s look at some of the risks:

• Hackers have taken advantage of several token bridges weaknesses in smart contracts code.
• In theory, a central organization that offers a custodial bridge as a service could potentially take money from its users. Before using a company's services, make sure they are trustworthy before choosing to use their token bridge service.
• A blockchain may experience potential problems in throughput when it receives transactions from many chains coming in through a token bridge.
• Each blockchain has a unique security framework. Transferring data between blockchains that have a different number of miners or validators could cause the ledgers to be tampered with by a third party or cause other problems.
  

What token bridge do I choose?

Multichain, formerly known as AnySwap, is a cross-chain router protocol; an infrastructure for multi-chain ecosystem, envisioned to become the ultimate router for Web 3. It offers Integrations for 2908+ projects & 69 different Blockchains.

Conclusion

The smooth transfer of cryptocurrencies/crypto tokens between blockchain networks is made possible through cross-chain technology (interoperability), it lowers traffic and gas costs. Additionally, it makes it easier for developers from different networks to collaborate to create new user platforms. From the user's point of view, cross-chain technology encourages quicker transaction processing times and faster transfers between various tokens. You should also know that the most vulnerable parts of the blockchain architecture are cross-chain bridges.

Token bridging is currently in the experimental stage, and a 100% reliable model has not yet been created.

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