📨 XCM Messaging: Cross-Chain Communication
Discover how parachains send assets and messages to each other
Connect specialized blockchains to a relay chain
Your Progress
0 / 5 completedCross-Chain Messaging (XCM)
XCM (Cross-Consensus Messaging) is Polkadot's language for communication between parachains. Unlike bridges that require trusted parties, XCM messages are natively secured by the Relay Chain, enabling trustless asset transfers and remote execution.
🌉 XCM vs Traditional Bridges
❌ Traditional Bridge
- •Requires trusted validators/relayers
- •Each bridge is a security risk
- •$2B+ stolen from bridge hacks
✅ XCM
- •Secured by Relay Chain validators
- •No additional trust assumptions
- •Native interoperability built-in
XCM Message Flow
Initiate Message
Source parachain creates XCM message with instructions (e.g., "Transfer 100 DOT to Acala")
Relay Chain Routing
Message passes through Relay Chain validators who verify and route to destination
Destination Execution
Target parachain executes instructions, updating state (e.g., crediting 100 DOT)
Finalization
Both chains finalize state changes, transaction complete
🛠️ Build Your XCM Message
Try sending assets between parachains using XCM! Select source, destination, asset, and amount to see how messages flow through the Relay Chain.
XCM Use Cases
Asset Transfers
Transfer tokens between parachains (e.g., DOT to Acala for DeFi, then back)
Remote Execution
Execute smart contracts on other chains (e.g., call Moonbeam EVM from Astar)
Composability
Build apps that span multiple chains (e.g., borrow on Acala, lend on Parallel)