Polkadot
Polkadot is a heterogeneous multi-chain blockchain platform that enables different blockchains to interoperate and share security. It uses a relay chain to coordinate consensus and communication between connected parachains (parallel chains), allowing for scalability and specialized functionality. Developed by the Web3 Foundation, it aims to create a decentralized web where diverse blockchains can seamlessly transfer data and assets.
Developers should learn Polkadot when building interoperable, scalable blockchain applications that need to communicate across different chains or leverage shared security. It's ideal for projects requiring custom blockchains with specific features (e.g., DeFi, gaming, or identity systems) that benefit from Polkadot's parachain model and cross-chain messaging (XCMP). Use cases include creating decentralized applications (dApps) that integrate multiple blockchains or launching a dedicated parachain for high-throughput needs.