🌌 Cosmos IBC: Internet of Blockchains
Learn how IBC enables trustless cross-chain communication
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0 / 5 completedWhat is Cosmos IBC?
**Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC)** is a protocol that enables independent blockchains to communicate and transfer assets trustlessly. Built into the Cosmos SDK, IBC connects sovereign chains into an "Internet of Blockchains" where each chain maintains its own validator set, governance, and security model.
Unlike bridges that rely on trusted intermediaries, IBC uses **light clients** embedded in each chain to verify the state of other chains cryptographically. This enables trustless token transfers, cross-chain contract calls, and interchain accounts across 50+ connected blockchains.
🌐 How IBC Enables Interoperability
Interactive: IBC Network Explorer
Explore real IBC-enabled chains and their connection statistics.
Cosmos Hub
The first hub in the Cosmos network
Why IBC Matters
🔒 Trustless Security
No trusted bridges or multisigs—light clients provide cryptographic proofs
⚡ Sovereign Chains
Each chain maintains its own validator set and governance
🌐 Universal Protocol
Works with any Tendermint-based chain (Cosmos SDK, Penumbra, etc.)
📦 Rich Applications
Supports token transfers, interchain accounts, and custom packets
IBC vs Traditional Bridges
| Feature | IBC | Traditional Bridge |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Model | Trustless (light clients) | Trusted validators |
| Security | Cryptographic proofs | Multisig / PoA |
| Attack Vector | Must compromise chain | Compromise validators |
| Compatibility | Cosmos ecosystem | Any chain |