Episode 500: Sergey Gorbunov on Blockchain Interoperability

Architecture

Axelar's architecture is designed to facilitate seamless blockchain interoperability through its innovative protocols. Sergey Gorbunov explains that the Cross-Chain Gateway Protocol acts as a network layer, enabling message delivery across blockchains, while the Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol operates as an application layer, allowing developers to write messages that are routed and executed on destination chains 1. This layered approach is akin to overlay networks in traditional internet infrastructure, providing a robust framework for cross-chain communication 2.

The transfer protocol is, you can think of it as a layer above the network layer. That makes it easy for the applications to interact and benefit from all of this cross chain infrastructure.

--- Sergey Gorbunov

By leveraging these protocols, Axelar aims to create a decentralized environment where applications can operate across multiple blockchain ecosystems without relying on centralized operators.

   

Connectivity & Governance

Axelar's cross-chain connectivity is built on an open programming environment that supports diverse use cases without centralized intervention. Sergey Gorbunov likens the Cross-Chain Gateway Protocol to the internet's BGP, facilitating connections and data flow between blockchain ecosystems 3. This decentralized approach extends to governance, where the community can propose and implement changes, ensuring the network evolves with user needs 4.

It's an open system, and that's what makes it real scale is the fact that anybody can contribute and anybody can build around it.

--- Sergey Gorbunov

This model empowers developers and users to actively participate in the network's growth and functionality.

   

Security & Validators

Security in Axelar's network is underpinned by decentralized trust, high safety, and liveness, which are essential for maintaining blockchain integrity. Sergey Gorbunov emphasizes that decentralized security prevents single points of failure, ensuring that malicious actors cannot compromise the system 5. Validator selection is dynamic, based on delegated voting power, allowing the network to adjust according to scalability needs 6.

Safety is a core property of any blockchain system. That's what allows us to trust it.

--- Sergey Gorbunov

This flexible and secure framework supports Axelar's mission to facilitate secure cross-chain transactions.