Router Protocol, a Coinbase Ventures-backed decentralized blockchain network, is improving cross-chain functionality through a new integration with Solana.

The partnership enhances cross-chain interactions, enabling users to access multiple blockchain ecosystems and improve decentralized applications, according to a press release shared with crypto.news.

This move allows Solana’s (SOL) ecosystem, including its decentralized exchanges, non-fungible token marketplaces, and decentralized finance projects, to connect with other major blockchain networks like Ethereum (ETH), Avalanche (AVAX), and Polygon (POL).

Router Protocol is a decentralized tool for cross-chain communication. It essentially helps blockchains interact with each other. This is important because many blockchains operate in isolation, limiting their ability to share assets, data, or services across networks.

By integrating with Router, Solana users and developers can now engage with over 25 other blockchains, expanding their reach and liquidity, according to the release.

Solana’s ecosystem

Solana has built a strong presence in DeFi, NFTs, and even meme coins. Top DeFi projects like Jupiter (JUP) and Raydium have billions in total trading volume, while NFT marketplaces such as Magic Eden have minted millions of NFTs.

However, despite this growth, Solana has faced challenges due to its unique Proof of History consensus, which has limited its interoperability with other networks.

Why cross-chain matters

Cross-chain functionality allows different blockchains to interact, unlocking new opportunities for users and developers. For example, Solana’s decentralized apps can now perform transactions across multiple chains from a single interface.

This includes tasks like swapping tokens, staking assets, or trading NFTs across different networks, simplifying the user experience.

Router Protocol launched its Layer-1 solution, Router Chain, in July to enable cross-chain interoperability between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the Cosmos (ATOM) ecosystem. The launch introduced chain abstraction technology, allowing developers to build decentralized applications for cross-chain money markets and omnichain tokens.