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Bridge

In IcelandicBrú

A service that moves crypto or tokens between two blockchain networks, usually by locking the asset on one network and issuing an equivalent on the other.

A bridge is a service that moves crypto or tokensTokenA digital asset created with a smart contract on another cryptocurrency's blockchain, rather than on a blockchain of its own. between two blockchain networksBlockchain networkThe blockchain a cryptocurrency or token is recorded and sent on, such as the Bitcoin network or the Ethereum network., for example from Ethereum to Solana or to a layer 2. Networks don't talk to each other on their own, so the bridge acts as the go-between.

How does a bridge work?

A common method is lock and mint. You send crypto to the bridge's smart contractSmart contractA program that runs on a blockchain and automatically carries out what it was written to do once certain conditions are met. on the first network, where it is locked. The bridge then issues the same amount of a wrapped token on the other network. When you go back, the wrapped token is burned and the original asset is released.

Think of a cloakroom. You leave your coat and get a ticket. The ticket is only worth something as long as the coat is still on its hook.

Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) is an example of a wrapped token: a token on Ethereum that is meant to be worth one bitcoin, but is not bitcoin itself.

What are the risks?

Bridges are among the riskiest parts of crypto:

  • Hacks. Bridges pool large sums in one place, which attracts hackers. According to ethereum.org, several of the largest hacks in DeFiDeFi (decentralised finance)Financial services, such as lending, saving and trading, that run on smart contracts on a blockchain instead of through a bank or other middleman. have targeted bridges. In one example, 120,000 wETH, worth about 325 million US dollars, was stolen from the Wormhole bridge.
  • Bugs in the code. A single flaw in a smart contract can give thieves access to all the funds.
  • Trust in operators. Some bridges are run by a small group that could block transfers or misuse the funds.
  • The wrapped token is not the original. If the bridge is drained, the wrapped token can become worthless.

If you use a bridge, research it carefully and start with a small amount.

Everything in Myntkaup Learn is written and regularly reviewed by the Myntkaup editorial team. It is for education and is not investment advice. Editorial policy. Updated 18 October 2026.