#### What is Blocknet? Blocknet (BLOCK) is a decentralized, open-source [blockchain](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-blockchain) [protocol](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-protocol) that aims to enhance interoperability between different blockchains. It strives to enable communication, interaction, and exchange between various public and private blockchains in a permissionless and [trustless](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-cryptography) manner. Blocknet uses the TCP/IP networking layer for communication, [P2P](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/peer-to-peer) atomic swaps using BIP65 for exchange, and a DHT overlay network to host the full nodes of compatible blockchains. This unique approach allows Blocknet to function as an "internet of blockchains," enabling the frictionless monetization of APIs and empowering blockchain technology by converting its isolated chains into a token ecosystem. #### How does Blocknet work? Blocknet operates through three core components: XBridge, XName, and XChat. XBridge is a serverless, [decentralized exchange](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-dex) layer that connects different blockchain assets via cross-chain atomic swaps. XName functions as a blockchain router, enabling messages to be routed to the correct blockchain through an inter-chain address system. XChat is a peer-to-peer data transport protocol that enables communication between nodes on different blockchains. These components work together to deliver a general-purpose inter-chain service infrastructure, allowing developers to build multi-chain applications and blockchain microservices. #### What are the potential use cases for Blocknet? Blocknet has a wide range of potential use cases, particularly for developers looking to build [decentralized applications](https://help.coinbase.com/en/wallet/other-topics/what-is-a-dapp) ([dApps](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/wallet/guide-to-dapps)) and blockchain microservices. With Blocknet's protocol, developers can create applications that consume services and verify data on any blockchain, without the need to host blockchains locally. This opens up possibilities for creating lightweight dApps that are decentralized from the ground up and can be composed of services and contracts on many chains. Additionally, Blocknet's XBridge component allows for the decentralized exchange of different blockchain assets, providing a platform for trustless trading. #### What is the history of Blocknet? Blocknet was launched with the vision of creating an infrastructure for the emerging "inter-blockchain era." The project's design and architecture were introduced in a largely non-technical way, with the aid of diagrams and step-by-step exposition of what inter-chain services are. The project's code is [open source](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/open-source), and anyone can contribute to the Blocknet project. Over time, Blocknet has evolved to become a technological leader in the provision of inter-chain infrastructure for use by dApps and [smart contracts](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-smart-contract). The project continues to develop and improve its protocol, with ongoing work on features such as a decentralized indexer for [Avalanche](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/avalanche) and [Ethereum](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-ethereum) chain data, a JavaScript library for XRouter, and a redesigned user interface for Block DX, among others.