As blockchain adoption accelerates and ecosystems fragment across chains, the need for efficient interoperability becomes more urgent than ever. In 2025, multichain infrastructure is no longer a niche topic for developers — it’s a core requirement for builders, investors, and everyday users.

Among the key players enabling this cross-chain reality is Multichain — a decentralized protocol focused on safe, transparent, and efficient interoperability between multiple blockchains.

This article explores what Multichain is, how it works, and why it matters in the multichain future.

What Is Multichain and Why It Matters

Multichain (formerly known as Anyswap) is an infrastructure protocol that facilitates cross-chain token swaps, asset transfers, and smart contract interactions between blockchains. Unlike centralized bridges or wrapped token models, Multichain uses a decentralized, router-based system that allows users to move native assets across networks without relying on custodians.

This matters because:

• DeFi protocols increasingly span multiple blockchains

• Users expect seamless access to liquidity

• Token standards and consensus mechanisms differ widely

• Interoperability is vital for scaling Web3

Multichain helps unify these fragmented networks under a common standard — without compromising speed or decentralization.

How Multichain Works

At its core, Multichain functions as a router-based cross-chain bridge. Here’s what that means:

• A user initiates a transfer on Chain A

• The asset is locked or burned on Chain A

• Simultaneously, the corresponding asset is released or minted on Chain B

• Verification is handled by a decentralized network of Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC) nodes

This approach minimizes trust assumptions and centralization risks. Today, Multichain supports over 80 blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Avalanche, and others.

The protocol is accessible through its user-friendly interface at Multichain, and its codebase is available for public inspection on GitHub.

Key Features

• Decentralized Infrastructure: Powered by SMPC nodes to ensure secure verification

• Extensive Chain Coverage: Supports 80+ chains across L1s and L2s

• Low-Cost, Fast Transfers: Efficient routing and minimal fees

• Open Source: Transparent, auditable smart contracts

• Developer-Friendly: SDKs and APIs for dApp integration

This architecture has made Multichain a foundational piece in the evolving multichain ecosystem.

Why Multichain Is Critical in 2025

Cross-chain interactions are now standard in many decentralized applications:

• Liquidity aggregation across multiple ecosystems

• NFT interoperability across marketplaces

• Cross-chain governance for DAOs

• Stablecoin transfers for global finance

• Composable smart contracts that span multiple networks

Without infrastructure like Multichain, each blockchain remains a silo — limiting scalability and adoption.

Learn More: Blockchain Bridges Explained

To understand the broader context of bridges and their risks, refer to this Binance Academy article on blockchain bridges. It’s a helpful primer before using advanced interoperability tools like Multichain.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Multichain

1. Is Multichain a blockchain?

No, Multichain is a decentralized cross-chain protocol — not a standalone blockchain. It acts as an interoperability layer between blockchains.

2. How is Multichain different from traditional bridges?

Traditional bridges often rely on centralized validators or custodians. Multichain uses Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC) nodes, offering decentralized and trust-minimized asset transfers.

3. Which chains does Multichain support?

Multichain supports 80+ blockchains including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Optimism, Fantom, Polygon, Avalanche, and many more. The list continues to grow as new networks are integrated.

4. Is it open-source?

Yes. All Multichain smart contracts and routing logic are open-source and can be audited via its GitHub repository.

5. How safe is Multichain?

While no bridge is without risk, Multichain is among the most battle-tested protocols in the space. It employs decentralized validation, code transparency, and chain isolation, helping mitigate attack surfaces.

6. What are the fees for using Multichain?

Fees are generally low, consisting of gas costs and a small protocol fee. Full breakdowns are available in the app interface.

7. Can developers build on Multichain?

Absolutely. Multichain provides APIs and SDKs for developers looking to integrate multichain functionality into their products, making it suitable for dApps, wallets, and DeFi protocols.

8. Where can I use Multichain?

You can access the protocol via the official website: Multichain, which offers an intuitive UI for bridging assets and checking supported chains.

Final Thoughts

As Web3 moves toward full multichain interoperability, tools like Multichain are no longer optional — they are foundational. Its secure, decentralized approach is paving the way for a more connected and scalable decentralized internet.

Whether you're an everyday user or a DeFi builder, understanding and leveraging multichain infrastructure will be essential in the years to come.