A cross-chain swap sends one coin on one network and delivers another coin on a different network
A cross-chain swap exchanges one asset for a different one across two blockchains, for example BTC on Bitcoin to SOL on Solana. A bridge moves the same asset to another chain. On an instant swap service a cross-chain order looks like any other: SimpleSwap and ChangeNOW both handle the bridging in the background.
A tool that lets separate blockchains pass information and assets between each other (ethereum.org). Bridges exist because each blockchain is an isolated system with its own rules, so tokens cannot move between chains on their own.
What is the difference between bridging and swapping crypto?
Cross-chain swap
- You send one asset on one network.
- You receive a different asset on another network.
- Example: BTC on Bitcoin to SOL on Solana.
Bridge
- You move an asset from one network to another.
- The asset stays the same; the network changes.
- Example: ETH from Ethereum to Arbitrum (Ledger).
Bridges are sometimes combined with swaps. That is what an instant swap service does behind a cross-chain order: you see one pair, and the routing takes care of moving value between chains.
How does a crypto bridge work?
- Lock
A smart contract on the source chain locks your asset.
- Mint
A wrapped version is minted for you on the destination chain, meant to carry the same value.
- Use
You hold or trade the wrapped token on the destination chain.
- Burn and release
When you bridge back, the wrapped tokens are burned and the locked original is released.
This lock-and-mint design is a typical one. Some issuers run their own burn-and-mint transfer instead: Circle's CCTP moves Circle-issued USDC between chains without creating a wrapped copy.
Is a wrapped token the same as the original coin?
No. A wrapped token is a version of an asset that lives on a different chain, for example WBTC on Ethereum, and it is not the original coin on its home blockchain (ethereum.org).
Holders rely on the issuer and on custodians to keep the reserve assets safe (Kraken Learn).
Are blockchain bridges safe?
A bridge is just a transfer.
Bridges carry smart-contract risk: a bug in the bridge code can cause user funds to be lost (ethereum.org).
Big bridges are never attacked.
Bridges have been a frequent target, and many of the largest blockchain hacks involved bridges (ethereum.org).
Trusted bridges remove the risk.
With a trusted bridge, you hand control of your assets to a central operator and rely on its reputation (ethereum.org).
A wrong-chain transfer can always be undone.
Blockchain transfers are generally irreversible, and some cases simply cannot be recovered (Circle, Kraken).
How it looks on SimpleSwap and ChangeNOW
- SimpleSwap folds cross-chain routing into the standard swap flow, so a BTC-to-SOL order looks identical to a USDT-to-USDC order from your side.
- ChangeNOW handles bridging in the background for swaps and also ships a standalone bridge product.
- On both, every order has its own ID, and you receive on the network you chose for the receiving side.
What to check before a cross-chain order
You choose two networks in one order: the one you send on and the one you receive on. Make sure the receiving address belongs to the receiving network, not the sending one.
- Receiving addressCheck it character by character before you confirm.
- NetworkSend and receive on the network the order shows.
- Seed phrase and keysKeep them private. Neither service will ever ask for them.
- FinalityNo swap service can reverse a confirmed blockchain transaction.
Network-by-network details for stablecoins are in How to swap USDT to USDC.
Questions
What is a crypto bridge and how does it work?
A bridge lets separate blockchains pass assets between each other.
In a typical design, a smart contract locks your asset on the source chain and a wrapped version is minted on the destination chain.
Is a wrapped token the same as the original coin?
No. It is a representation of the asset on another chain, meant to carry the same value, and it depends on its issuer and custodians.
Are blockchain bridges safe?
They carry smart-contract risk, and bridges have been a frequent target of attacks. Trusted bridges add reliance on a central operator.
What is the difference between bridging and swapping crypto?
Bridging moves the same asset to another chain. Swapping exchanges one asset for a different one. A cross-chain swap does both in one order.
Does SimpleSwap have a separate bridge?
SimpleSwap keeps cross-chain routing inside the standard swap. ChangeNOW offers a standalone bridge in addition to swaps.