The Relay Chain is the heart of the Polkadot network, a multi-chain platform designed to support various blockchains in a shared security model. It is responsible for the network's shared security, consensus, and cross-chain interoperability.
All blockchains connected to Polkadot, known as parachains, are attached to the Relay Chain. It coordinates the system's shared security, including validation of transactions and blocks on parachains. Validators on the Relay Chain validate transactions across all parachains, ensuring the security and accuracy of the entire network.
The Relay Chain also facilitates cross-chain communication, allowing different parachains to interact and exchange information. This is achieved through Cross-chain Message Passing (XCMP), a protocol that enables the transfer of messages, including transactions and data, between parachains.
While the Relay Chain itself is relatively simple and does not support smart contracts or complex transactions, its simplicity enhances the security and performance of the Polkadot network. The primary role of the Relay Chain is to secure and facilitate the interoperability of the parachains connected to it.