Parachain

A parachain is an independent blockchain that runs parallel to a main chain (referred to as the relay chain) in a multi-chain network such as Polkadot or Kusama. Parachains benefit from the security and scalability of the main chain while maintaining their own specialized functionalities. They can communicate and transfer assets with other parachains via cross-chain communication. Parachains are often customized for specific use cases such as DeFi, gaming, or supply chain management, and projects must win a parachain slot auction to be integrated into the Polkadot or Kusama ecosystem.