Multichain is a leading cross-chain router protocol designed to enable seamless asset transfers across multiple blockchain networks. Formerly known as Anyswap, Multichain has evolved into one of the most widely used platforms for bridging cryptocurrencies and NFTs between blockchains. By leveraging advanced cryptographic techniques and liquidity infrastructure, it simplifies cross-chain interoperability—a critical component in the expanding Web3 ecosystem.
The platform supports over 42 blockchain networks, including major ecosystems like BNB Smart Chain, Ethereum, Fantom, Polygon, Avalanche, and Solana. Whether you're transferring tokens for investment, yield farming, or decentralized application (DApp) usage, Multichain streamlines the process with speed and reliability.
At the heart of its architecture, Multichain uses two primary mechanisms to bridge assets: pegged token minting and cross-chain liquidity pools. These methods ensure compatibility across both EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine)-based chains and non-EVM networks such as those built on Cosmos and Terra.
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How Multichain Works
Token Bridging via Pegged Mechanism
For tokens that aren't natively available on the destination chain, Multichain employs a secure pegging system. When you initiate a transfer—say, moving BNB from BNB Smart Chain to Ethereum—the protocol locks your original tokens in a smart contract on the source chain. It then mints an equivalent amount of wrapped tokens on the target chain at a 1:1 ratio.
This method ensures that no new supply is created, preserving asset scarcity and value integrity. Once transferred, these wrapped tokens function just like their native counterparts within the destination ecosystem.
Cross-Chain Liquidity Pools
When a token already exists natively across multiple chains—such as USDC or DAI—Multichain utilizes decentralized liquidity pools instead of minting wrapped versions. Users swap their assets directly across chains through these pools, which are funded by liquidity providers earning a share of transaction fees.
This approach reduces reliance on centralized custodians and enhances capital efficiency by reusing existing token supplies across ecosystems.
The Multichain Router
The Multichain Router automatically selects the optimal bridging path based on the token and chains involved. It intelligently determines whether to use the pegged minting method or liquidity pool exchange, abstracting technical complexity from end users.
This unified interface allows seamless transfers of thousands of supported tokens and NFTs across diverse networks, making it ideal for DeFi participants who operate across multiple blockchains.
Security Architecture: SMPC Nodes
Multichain’s security model is powered by a decentralized network of Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC) nodes. These nodes collectively sign transactions without ever exposing private keys in full. Each node holds only a fragment of the key, generated through distributed key generation (DKG), eliminating single points of failure.
This design ensures high levels of decentralization and resistance to attacks. With the launch of MPC Network 2.0, the node network has become open-source and community-driven, further enhancing transparency and trust.
FAQ: Is Multichain safe to use?
Yes, Multichain uses battle-tested cryptography and a distributed node network to secure cross-chain transactions. While no system is entirely risk-free, its architecture significantly mitigates common vulnerabilities found in custodial bridges.
Why Choose Multichain?
Several key advantages set Multichain apart in the competitive cross-chain infrastructure space:
- Extensive Chain Support: With integration across more than 42 blockchains—including both EVM and non-EVM networks—it offers unmatched connectivity.
- Project-Friendly Token Deployment: Projects can collaborate with Multichain to deploy their tokens across new chains quickly and free of charge, typically within a week.
- Backed by Industry Leaders: The project received strategic funding from Binance’s accelerator program ($350,000) and a $60 million investment round led by Binance Labs, with participation from Sequoia Capital, IDG Capital, and Tron Foundation.
- Broad Asset Coverage: Supports over 2,000 tokens and NFTs, serving major DeFi protocols like SushiSwap and Curve Finance.
These strengths position Multichain as a foundational layer for Web3 interoperability.
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The MULTI Token and Governance
MULTI is the native governance token of the Multichain ecosystem. It succeeded the original ANY token issued under the Anyswap brand, with a 1:1 swap mechanism allowing ANY holders to convert their holdings seamlessly.
Once fully activated, MULTI will empower token holders to participate in protocol governance, influencing future upgrades and policy decisions. Additionally, users can stake MULTI to obtain veMULTI, which grants voting power in governance proposals and entitles holders to a share of bridge transaction fees.
If all ANY tokens were converted, the total supply of MULTI would reach 100 million. This capped supply model supports long-term value sustainability.
You can purchase MULTI on major exchanges such as Binance using trading pairs like BTC/MULTI, USDT/MULTI, or BUSD/MULTI. Simply search for "MULTI" in the trading interface to access available markets.
How to Bridge Assets Using Multichain
Let’s walk through a practical example: transferring BUSD from BNB Smart Chain to Polygon.
- Visit the Multichain Router.
- Click “Connect Wallet” in the top-right corner and connect your wallet (e.g., MetaMask). Ensure it's set to BNB Smart Chain.
- Select BNB Smart Chain as the source network.
- Choose BUSD - BUSDToken as the asset to bridge.
- Set Polygon as the destination network. The corresponding bridged asset (BUSD Binance-Peg BUSDToken) should auto-populate.
- Enter the amount and click “Swap.” Confirm the transaction in your wallet.
The transfer typically completes within 30 minutes, with no slippage in most cases.
FAQ: How long does a Multichain transfer take?
Most transactions finalize within 30 minutes, though network congestion may occasionally cause minor delays.
FAQ: Are there fees for using Multichain?
Yes, small network and service fees apply, but they’re generally competitive compared to other bridging solutions.
Final Thoughts
As blockchain fragmentation continues, interoperability becomes increasingly vital. Multichain addresses this challenge head-on by offering a robust, scalable, and secure solution for cross-chain asset movement. Its dual-method bridging system, extensive chain support, and strong institutional backing make it a go-to choice for users and developers alike.
Whether you're navigating DeFi across Ethereum, Avalanche, Solana, or Polygon—or building the next-generation multi-chain application—Multichain serves as a powerful enabler in the journey toward a truly interconnected Web3 world.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Multichain used for?
A: Multichain enables users to transfer tokens and NFTs between different blockchain networks securely and efficiently.
Q: Is Multichain decentralized?
A: Yes, it operates through a decentralized network of SMPC nodes that collectively manage cross-chain transactions without centralized control.
Q: Can I bridge NFTs using Multichain?
A: Yes, Multichain supports cross-chain NFT transfers similar to fungible tokens.
Q: What happened to the ANY token?
A: The ANY token was rebranded to MULTI. Holders can swap ANY for MULTI at a 1:1 ratio via the official platform.
Q: Does Multichain support non-EVM blockchains?
A: Yes, it supports both EVM-based chains (like Ethereum and BSC) and non-EVM chains (such as Cosmos-based networks).
Q: Is there a limit to how much I can bridge?
A: While there's no fixed cap, large transfers may be subject to liquidity availability or network-specific limits.