Sidechains
Sidechains are separate blockchains that run parallel to a main blockchain (like Bitcoin or Ethereum), enabling interoperability and scalability by allowing assets to be transferred between chains. They operate with their own consensus mechanisms and rules, while being pegged to the main chain for security and asset transfer. This technology facilitates off-chain transactions, experimentation with new features, and reduced congestion on the main network.
Developers should learn about sidechains when building decentralized applications (dApps) that require high transaction throughput, lower fees, or specialized functionality not supported by the main blockchain. They are particularly useful for scaling solutions, such as handling microtransactions in gaming or DeFi protocols, and for testing new consensus algorithms or smart contract features in a secure, isolated environment. Sidechains also enable cross-chain asset transfers, which is essential for interoperability in multi-chain ecosystems.