Blockchain technology has evolved rapidly, but one persistent challenge remains: interoperability. With dozens of blockchains operating in isolation, users and developers face limitations in asset transfers, data sharing, and cross-chain application functionality. Enter LayerZero, a cutting-edge open-source protocol designed to bridge this gap by enabling seamless communication between blockchains.
With support for over 50 blockchains and growing, LayerZero empowers developers to build omnichain applications—decentralized apps that function fluidly across multiple networks without sacrificing security or control. Whether you're transferring tokens, executing remote smart contract calls, or passing arbitrary data, LayerZero provides the infrastructure to make it happen.
This guide explores how developers can leverage LayerZero V2 to create next-generation decentralized applications, understand core components like OApps and OFTs, and even run their own infrastructure nodes.
What Is LayerZero?
LayerZero is an immutable, trust-minimized messaging protocol that connects blockchains through a decentralized network of off-chain relayers and on-chain smart contracts. Unlike traditional cross-chain bridges that rely on wrapped assets or centralized custodians, LayerZero enables direct, secure communication between chains using Ultra Light Nodes (ULNs).
These ULNs verify message authenticity without requiring full node validation, ensuring fast, low-cost, and secure message delivery across chains. Because LayerZero is fully open-source and non-custodial, developers retain complete control over their applications while benefiting from true omnichain interoperability.
👉 Discover how omnichain messaging can transform your project
Build on LayerZero V2: Core Tools for Developers
LayerZero V2 introduces powerful tools that simplify cross-chain development. Developers can now send arbitrary data, trigger external function calls, and transfer native tokens across chains—all while maintaining autonomy over their logic and security models.
OApp: Omnichain Application Interface
An OApp (Omnichain Application) is a developer-friendly interface that allows apps to send and receive arbitrary data across any supported blockchain. This makes it ideal for use cases such as:
- Cross-chain governance systems
- Multi-chain NFT marketplaces
- Decentralized identity verification
- Interoperable DeFi protocols
Using the OApp framework, developers define message handlers on both source and destination chains. When a message is sent, LayerZero ensures it’s delivered securely and executed exactly once.
To get started, check out the OApp Quickstart guide in the official documentation.
OFT: Omnichain Fungible Token Standard
The OFT (Omnichain Fungible Token) standard enables native token transfers across chains without wrapping or liquidity pools. Instead of locking tokens on one chain and minting a wrapped version elsewhere, OFT uses a circulating supply model where tokens are burned on the source chain and minted on the destination.
This approach eliminates reliance on third-party bridges and reduces exposure to common attack vectors like oracle manipulation or custodial risk.
Popular projects have already adopted OFT to deploy their tokens across Ethereum, Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, Polygon, and more. To implement OFT in your project, refer to the OFT Quickstart guide.
Legacy Support: Building on LayerZero V1
While V2 offers enhanced features and improved security, some projects still operate on LayerZero V1. For these legacy implementations, the Endpoint V1 documentation remains available for reference.
Developers maintaining older integrations can continue to use V1 endpoints for message passing, though migration to V2 is strongly encouraged for better performance, lower costs, and access to new capabilities.
Run Your Own Infrastructure: DVNs and Executors
One of LayerZero’s most powerful features is its modular design, which allows developers to run custom infrastructure components—specifically DVNs (Decentralized Verifying Networks) and Executors—to enhance security and customization.
DVN: Decentralized Verifying Network
A DVN validates the authenticity of messages sent between chains. While LayerZero operates a default set of DVNs, developers can deploy their own by running a DVN contract on each chain they support.
Running a custom DVN gives teams greater control over message verification policies and enables tailored security models—ideal for enterprises or protocols requiring high assurance levels.
To learn how to build and deploy your own DVN, see the Build DVN guide.
Executor: Message Execution Handler
An Executor is responsible for delivering and executing messages on the destination chain. By deploying a custom Executor, developers can ensure messages are processed according to specific business logic or timing requirements.
For example, an Executor could batch multiple messages to save gas or delay execution until certain conditions are met.
Explore the Executor documentation to start building your own execution layer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What blockchains does LayerZero support?
LayerZero currently supports over 50 blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Avalanche, Base, zkSync, Linea, Scroll, and many others. The list continues to expand as new chains integrate with the protocol.
How does LayerZero differ from traditional cross-chain bridges?
Traditional bridges often rely on custodial models or wrapped assets, introducing counterparty risk. LayerZero eliminates intermediaries by using Ultra Light Nodes to verify messages directly from source to destination chains. This results in faster, cheaper, and more secure cross-chain communication.
👉 See how LayerZero compares to other interoperability solutions
Is LayerZero secure?
Yes. LayerZero employs a trust-minimized architecture where no single component has full control over message validation. Security is enhanced when multiple independent DVNs and Executors are used. Additionally, all core contracts are open-source and audited by leading firms.
Can I use LayerZero without writing smart contracts?
While basic integration requires smart contract development, several wallets and platforms now offer built-in LayerZero support for end users. For developers looking to abstract complexity, SDKs and libraries are available to streamline implementation.
What are common use cases for LayerZero?
Popular applications include:
- Cross-chain token transfers (via OFT)
- Omnichain lending and borrowing platforms
- Multi-chain yield aggregators
- Interoperable NFTs
- DAO governance across chains
How do I get help with development?
Join the #dev-general channel on the LayerZero Discord server to connect with other developers, ask technical questions, and receive real-time support from the core team.
Why Choose LayerZero for Omnichain Development?
As blockchain ecosystems become increasingly fragmented, the need for robust interoperability solutions has never been greater. LayerZero stands out by offering:
- True omnichain capability: Native support for sending data and tokens across chains.
- Developer autonomy: Full control over application logic and security assumptions.
- Open-source transparency: All code is publicly available and community-auditable.
- Scalable infrastructure: Modular components allow customization based on project needs.
Whether you're launching a new DeFi protocol or expanding an existing dApp across chains, LayerZero provides the foundation for scalable, secure cross-chain functionality.
👉 Start building your omnichain future today
By leveraging LayerZero’s powerful tools—OApps, OFTs, DVNs, and Executors—developers can break free from single-chain limitations and embrace a truly interconnected blockchain ecosystem. With comprehensive documentation, active community support, and continuous innovation, LayerZero is shaping the future of decentralized application development.