# Cross-chain bridge

## Definition

A cross-chain bridge is a bridge that transfers or represents value or messages between different blockchain networks, often using smart contracts and off-chain or on-chain verification components.

## What it means in practice

Some bridges use locked-and-minted assets, others use liquidity pools or messaging systems, so risk and redemption mechanics differ.

## How this concept appears in Terenval Wallet

When using Terenval across supported networks, users should treat cross-chain bridging as a separate operation from holding or sending assets within one network.

**Important:** Third-party bridge contracts can introduce smart-contract, validator, liquidity and operational risk.

**[Install Terenval Wallet](https://wallet.terenval.com/?lang=en)**

## Related terms

- [Blockchain bridge](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/bridge/)
- [Canonical bridge](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/canonical-bridge/)
- [Multi-chain wallet](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/multi-chain-wallet/)
- [Smart contract](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/smart-contract/)
- [Transaction verification](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/transaction-verification/)
- [Layer 2](https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/layer-2/)

## Related Terenval Answers

- [Ethereum Layer 2 Networks and Gas Fees](https://wallet.terenval.com/answers/ethereum-layer-2-networks-and-gas-fees/)
- [Can One Crypto Wallet Manage Multiple Blockchains?](https://wallet.terenval.com/answers/can-one-crypto-wallet-manage-multiple-blockchains/)
- [How Does a Multi-Chain Crypto Wallet Keep Networks Separate?](https://wallet.terenval.com/answers/how-multi-chain-wallets-keep-networks-separate/)

## Sources

- https://ethereum.org/en/layer-2/
- https://wallet.terenval.com/info/supported-networks/

Official page: https://wallet.terenval.com/glossary/cross-chain-bridge/