Parachains
Parachains are specialized, application-specific blockchains that run in parallel within the Polkadot or Kusama network ecosystems. They connect to a central Relay Chain, which provides shared security, consensus, and interoperability, allowing them to process transactions independently and efficiently. This architecture enables scalable, customizable blockchain solutions without compromising on security or decentralization.
Developers should learn about parachains when building decentralized applications (dApps) that require high throughput, custom governance, or specific functionality not easily achieved on general-purpose blockchains like Ethereum. They are particularly useful for projects needing dedicated blockchain resources, such as DeFi platforms, gaming ecosystems, or enterprise solutions, as they offer flexibility and scalability while leveraging Polkadot's shared security model.