About
LayerZero is an open-source, omnichain interoperability protocol designed to facilitate seamless and secure communication between over 80 different blockchains. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on intermediary chains or centralized multisigs, LayerZero acts as a "communication fabric" that allows smart contracts on disparate networks to interact as if they existed on a single chain. It achieves this through Ultra Light Nodes (ULNs) lightweight smart contracts deployed on each supported blockchain that verify cross-chain messages without the high costs of running a full on-chain light client.
The protocol underwent a significant evolution with the launch of LayerZero V2 in 2024, which introduced a more modular and decentralized security architecture. V2 replaced the original Oracle/Relayer model with Decentralized Verifier Networks (DVNs) and Executors. This "X of Y of Z" security model allows applications to customize their own security stack by choosing which independent verifiers (such as Google Cloud, Polyhedra, or Animoca) must sign off on a message before it is executed. This prevents any single point of failure and allows developers to balance speed, cost, and security based on their specific needs.
As of early 2026, LayerZero has become the industry standard for Omnichain Fungible Tokens (OFTs) and Omnichain Non-Fungible Tokens (ONFTs). These standards allow assets like Ethena’s USDe or Pudgy Penguins’ Lil Pudgys to move across chains natively without the risks of "wrapped" tokens. The ZRO token, which launched on June 20, 2024, serves as the protocol's native governance and utility asset. It is used to align incentives among network participants, and holders can participate in the LayerZero DAO to vote on protocol upgrades, such as the upcoming June 2026 "Fee Switch" referendum.
