> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.bifrostnetwork.com/bifrost-network/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.bifrostnetwork.com/bifrost-network/bifrost-network-architecture.md).

# Bifrost Network Architecture

The Bifrost Network is an EVM-compatible blockchain designed for multichain interoperability, allowing users and the DApp developers in the Bifrost Network ecosystem to interact with multiple blockchains through native cross-chain communication. The Bifrost Network initially supports timelock-secured token transfers and oracle aggregations across blockchains.

A fully-functioning node in the Bifrost Network is composed of the base part and the inter-connection part, or "relayer." The base part, built with Substrate and the Bifrost precompiles, is responsible for producing and finalizing blocks. At the same time, the relayer monitors multiple blockchains and securely executes cross-chain actions through in-blockchain consensus.

### Cross-Chain Communication

<figure><img src="/files/ZWqpZ4XxdHeYw1FFDsUG" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Cross-Chain Communication (CCC) is a protocol that facilitates the delivery and verification of cross-chain actions in the Bifrost Network. It uses specialized smart contracts called "socket contracts" to coordinate relayers and cross-chain users on every supported blockchain.&#x20;

A user sends a request to the socket contracts to initiate a cross-chain action. If the socket contract can successfully validate the request, the relayers are notified and deliver the request to a socket contract on the other blockchain. CCC uses in-blockchain consensus to verify the request, including the current state of the cross-chain action and the signature of the relayer. The socket contract can only execute the cross-chain action when a quorum of authenticated relayers agree on the request and it is in a legitimate state.


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