How do blockchain bridges work?
A blockchain bridge locks or burns tokens on one chain and mints or releases them on another. You connect a wallet, approve an amount and track two chains.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
On this page
- Lock-and-mint custodians hold the original asset; liquidity pools hold both sides.
- Check that the token and both chains are supported.
- Save both transaction hashes and the bridge receipt.
Each blockchain keeps its own ledger, so a token cannot move directly between chains.
What a blockchain bridge does
A bridge locks or burns tokens on the origin chain, then mints or releases a token on the destination chain. Lock-and-mint custodians hold the original asset, while liquidity pools hold both sides.
Before you start: check support
Not every bridge serves every chain or token. Check the supported networks and token list before you connect.
Step-by-step: bridging your crypto
Do every check before you sign.
- 1Connect and switchConnect your wallet and set it to the origin chain.
- 2Approve the amountApprove only the amount you plan to bridge.
- 3Confirm the transferCheck the destination address, token and amount. A confirmed transfer cannot be reversed.
- 4Check both chainsWait for the origin transaction, then switch to the destination chain. The destination side can still fail.
After the bridge: records and safety
Save both transaction hashes and the bridge receipt. The IRS treats crypto as property, so keep records for tax time.
- Revoke token approvals you no longer need.
- Confirm the wrapped token shows in your wallet.
- Keep both transaction hashes and the receipt.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, usually. A claim on the destination chain needs its native coin for gas.
It is a token issued on the destination chain that stands for the asset you bridged. You can usually swap it back.
It depends on the two chains and the bridge design. Some settle in minutes, while others wait on a challenge period.
A stuck transfer usually waits on a destination claim or a bridge operator. Check both transaction hashes and ask support.
