Definition
Chainweb is a blockchain architecture concept where multiple individual blockchains run in parallel and are cryptographically linked to form one unified network. Instead of relying on a single chain to process all transactions, Chainweb distributes activity across many chains that periodically reference each other. This structure is designed to preserve the core properties of a blockchain, such as immutability and shared security, while scaling transaction capacity. As a concept, it focuses on how chains are organized and connected rather than on a specific coin or token.
Context and Usage
In the context of crypto and blockchain, Chainweb is often discussed as an approach to scaling that keeps activity on-chain while avoiding a single, congested ledger. The idea emphasizes parallelism, where each chain processes its own set of transactions but remains part of a coordinated whole through cross-linking. This makes Chainweb relevant to conversations about network design, consensus structure, and how to increase throughput without fully moving activity off a primary blockchain. It is typically referenced as a foundational design choice for networks that want to combine high performance with a shared security model.