Cross-Consensus Messaging Format (XCM) is a communication language used to smoothly transfer messages, assets, and value between the different parachains within the Polkadot ecosystem as well as with external blockchains.
Cross-Consensus Messaging Format (XCM) is a standardized communication language used for transferring messages and value between different chains within the Polkadot ecosystem and even beyond Polkadot. It enables parachains to interact, send transactions, and exchange assets seamlessly by allowing one chain to express a message and another chain to correctly interpret and act on the message it receives.
XCM is a messaging format, not a messaging protocol. The messaging protocol is XCMP. XCM is designed to be flexible, dynamic, and capable of scaling as the networks grow.
When a parachain intends to send a message or asset to another parachain, XCM facilitates the creation of a message that encapsulates the relevant information. This message is then relayed through the Polkadot relay chain, which acts as the communication hub for all connected parachains. The relay chain, functioning as the central coordinator, ensures the secure and orderly transfer of messages. Validators on the relay chain validate and verify these messages, upholding the integrity of the entire process.
XCM does not require the sender to wait for confirmation. Messages are sent and processed independently. Once a message is sent, it is guaranteed to be delivered and executed accurately and on time. The sender does not automatically receive a response unless a separate message is sent back. XCM is adaptable to any consensus mechanism.
XCM offers interoperability by removing the barriers that have hindered blockchains from collaborating, efficiency through its standardized messaging format, decentralization with messages validated independently, and scalability through its dynamic architecture. Although still evolving, it is already making a lot of progress in enabling multi-chain interoperability across different blockchain platforms.
