A cross-chain bridge connects different blockchain networks, allowing you to transfer assets from one chain to another. For example, moving ETH from Ethereum to Arbitrum, or USDT from BSC to Polygon. You will need tokens on the destination chain for gas. Consider buying tokens on Binance first. Download the Binance app -- iPhone users can refer to the iOS installation guide.
How Do Cross-Chain Bridges Work?
The basic principle is a "lock and mint" mechanism:
- You send assets to the bridge contract on the source chain, where they are locked
- The bridge verifies the transaction occurred
- Equivalent wrapped tokens are minted on the destination chain and sent to your address
- When transferring back, the wrapped tokens are burned and originals are unlocked
Verification methods vary: external verification (validator nodes), local verification (parties only), and native verification (destination chain consensus).
Major Cross-Chain Bridges
| Bridge | Supported Chains | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Arbitrum Bridge | ETH to Arbitrum | Official bridge, secure but slow withdrawals (7 days) |
| Optimism Bridge | ETH to Optimism | Official bridge, 7-day withdrawal period |
| Stargate | Multi-chain | LayerZero protocol, fast |
| Across Protocol | ETH/L2 | Fast, low fees |
| Orbiter Finance | ETH/L2 | Supports many chains, transparent fees |
| Portal (Wormhole) | Multi-chain | Supports non-EVM chains like Solana |
Step-by-Step Guide
Using Orbiter Finance to bridge ETH from Ethereum to Arbitrum:
- Connect wallet: Open orbiter.finance, connect MetaMask
- Select chains: Source = Ethereum, Destination = Arbitrum
- Select token and enter amount
- Review route: Check estimated time, fees, and final amount
- Initiate transaction: Click Send, confirm in MetaMask
- Wait for arrival: Usually a few minutes to half an hour
Your wallet address is the same on both EVM-compatible chains.
Bridge Fees
- Source chain gas: Gas for sending the transaction
- Bridge fee: Usually 0.01% to 0.3% of the amount
- Destination chain gas: Some bridges deduct this from the transfer
Bridge vs. Exchange Transfer
Bridge: No KYC, direct on-chain, smart contract risk, supports niche chains. Exchange: Simpler, requires trust, may have limits.
For beginners, withdrawing from Binance directly to the target chain is simpler and safer.
FAQ
How long do cross-chain transfers take?
Third-party bridges: minutes to half an hour. Rollup official bridges: 7 days for L2 to L1.
Are bridges safe?
They are among the highest-risk areas in DeFi. Use established bridges and avoid bridging excessive amounts through one bridge.
Does my address change?
Between EVM chains, no. From EVM to non-EVM (Solana), a different format is needed.
What if my transaction gets stuck?
Check the source chain block explorer first. If confirmed but not received, contact bridge support.
Can all tokens be bridged?
No. Each bridge supports specific tokens. Major tokens (ETH, USDT, USDC) have the best support.
Safety Reminders
- Only use audited bridges with strong track records
- Split large amounts into multiple transactions
- Verify destination address format before bridging
- Confirm you are on the official bridge website
- Use the Binance app to manage multi-chain assets
- Always test with a small amount first