Sidechains differ from Layer 2 protocols: a sidechain runs its own consensus and validators, whereas a Layer 2 (like Hydra) inherits the main chain's security and only uses the main chain for settlement.
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- BridgeA protocol that connects Cardano to another blockchain so assets or messages can move between them; typically a pair of contracts that lock value on one chain and mint a representation on the other.View term
- Layer 2Protocols built on top of a Layer 1 blockchain to improve scalability or add functionality.View term