How to Bridge Tokens Between Blockchains (Safely)

The crypto world is full of blockchains—Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, and more—each with its own strengths, like cheaper fees or unique apps. But what if your tokens are on one chain and you need them on another? That’s where token bridging comes in. It lets you move assets across blockchains, unlocking new possibilities. However, with over $2.8 billion lost in bridge hacks, safety is critical. In this post, we’ll explain how bridging works, walk you through the process, and share tips to keep your funds secure.

Why Bridge Tokens?

Blockchains don’t naturally talk to each other. If you have ETH on Ethereum but want to trade on Solana’s low-fee DeFi apps, you’re stuck unless you bridge. Bridging moves your tokens—like ETH, BTC, or stablecoins—to another chain, letting you use its features. Maybe you’re chasing faster transactions on Binance Smart Chain or exploring NFTs on Polygon. Bridging makes it possible, connecting the fragmented crypto ecosystem so you can go where the action is.

How Token Bridging Works

Bridging is like transferring money between banks, but for blockchains. The most common method locks your tokens in a smart contract on the source chain (say, Ethereum) and mints an equivalent “wrapped” version on the destination chain (like Solana). For example, bridging Bitcoin to Ethereum might give you WBTC, a token pegged to Bitcoin’s value. When you bridge back, the wrapped token is burned, and the original is unlocked.

Some bridges use liquidity pools instead, where you deposit tokens into a shared pool and get matching assets on the other chain. Either way, bridges rely on smart contracts or validators to ensure the process is secure and the token supply stays balanced.

There are two main types of bridges:

• Centralized bridges, run by a single company, are often easier to use but require trusting them with your funds.
• Decentralized bridges, powered by smart contracts and multiple validators, reduce that trust but can be trickier and carry code risks.

Both have pros and cons, but safety depends on choosing the right one.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bridging Tokens Safely

Ready to bridge? Here’s how to do it securely, using a trusted decentralized bridge like deBridge as an example.

1. Pick a Reputable Bridge
   Research bridges with a strong track record. deBridge, for instance, has moved over $9.96 billion without exploits and passed 25+ security audits by firms like Halborn and Zokyo. Check for open-source code, community feedback, and bug bounty programs—deBridge offers $200,000 for spotting flaws. Avoid bridges with recent hacks or unclear ownership.

2. Verify the Website
   Scammers love fake bridge sites. Double-check the URL (e.g., debridge.finance) and bookmark it to avoid phishing traps. If a deal looks too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

3. Connect Your Wallet
   Use a trusted wallet like MetaMask. Go to the bridge’s interface, click “Connect Wallet,” and approve the connection. Ensure your wallet software is updated to dodge known bugs.

4. Choose Your Chains and Amount
   Select the source chain (where your tokens are) and the destination chain (where you want them). Enter the amount to bridge—start with a small test transaction, like $10, to confirm everything works. Check for any minimums; some bridges require a baseline amount.

5. Review Fees
   Bridging involves gas fees on the source chain, and some bridges add a small service fee (deBridge’s is ultra-low, around 0.1%). Most cover destination chain fees, but confirm to avoid surprises.

6. Confirm the Transaction
   Review the details—chains, amount, and address. Approve the transaction in your wallet, paying the gas fee. For deBridge, transfers can be instant (~2 seconds), but others may take 1-30 minutes. Track progress using a blockchain explorer like Etherscan or Solscan.

7. Check Your Tokens
   Once complete, your wallet should show the tokens on the new chain (e.g., wrapped ETH on Solana). If there’s a delay, don’t panic—check the bridge’s status or support channels.

Tips to Stay Safe

Bridging is powerful but risky if you’re careless. Here are key ways to protect yourself:

• Start Small: Test with a tiny amount to ensure the bridge works as expected. Losing $10 is better than $1,000.
• Monitor Transactions: Use blockchain explorers to watch your transfer in real time. If something stalls, contact the bridge’s support.
• Stay Updated: Follow the bridge’s blog or socials for news on upgrades or issues. A paused bridge could delay your funds.
• Avoid Rush Decisions: Volatility or hype can tempt you to bridge fast. Take your time to verify everything.
• Secure Your Wallet: Never share your private key or seed phrase. Use a hardware wallet for large amounts to reduce hacking risks.

What to Watch Out For

Bridges aren’t perfect. Smart contracts can have bugs, and centralized bridges might hold your funds hostage if they fail. Past hacks, like the $326 million Wormhole exploit in 2022, show how things can go wrong. Even decentralized bridges aren’t immune—complex code means more chances for errors. Always check a bridge’s audit history and community trust. If it’s new or untested, proceed with extra caution.

Fees can also add up, especially on busy chains like Ethereum. Liquidity pool bridges might cause slippage, where you get slightly less than expected. And don’t forget about scams—fake websites or wallet-draining links are common. Stick to well-known bridges and verify every step.

Why deBridge Stands Out

While many bridges exist, deBridge is a top pick for 2025. It’s decentralized, audited extensively, and hasn’t been hacked, with billions in transfers proving its reliability. Its instant transfers and low fees make it user-friendly, and it supports major chains like Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon. For beginners, its clear interface and strong security make it a safe starting point.

Other solid options include Defiway for its mobile app and 0.1% fee, Hop Protocol for fast Layer 2 swaps, or Portal Bridge for broad chain support. Pick based on your needs—speed, cost, or chain compatibility—but always prioritize security.

Wrapping Up

Bridging tokens opens up the full potential of crypto, letting you chase opportunities across blockchains. Whether it’s trading on Solana’s DeFi apps or minting NFTs on Polygon, you’re no longer locked to one chain. By choosing a trusted bridge like deBridge, verifying every step, and starting small, you can bridge safely and confidently. Just keep an eye on fees, stay wary of scams, and monitor your transactions. With a little care, you’ll be navigating the multi-chain world like a pro.