# ZetaChain > The First Universal Blockchain ZetaChain is a Layer 1 blockchain enabling cross-chain interoperability between Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other networks without bridges or wrapped tokens. ZetaChain is a Proof of Stake Layer 1 blockchain built on Cosmos SDK and Tendermint consensus that enables native cross-chain smart contract functionality across multiple blockchain networks. The platform allows developers to deploy Universal Apps that can read from and write to any connected blockchain, including non-smart contract chains like Bitcoin and Dogecoin, through its omnichain smart contracts architecture. ZetaChain uses a distributed network of validators, observers, and signers with Threshold Signature Scheme technology to facilitate secure cross-chain transactions without requiring bridges or wrapped tokens. - Type: Network - Sector: Blockchain Platforms - Status: Active - Founded: 2021-01-01 - Profile: https://thegrid.id/profiles/zetachain ## Products - [ZetaChain Mainnet](https://thegrid.id/profiles/zetachain): ZetaChain Mainnet is a Layer 1 blockchain network utilizing Cosmos SDK and Tendermint consensus to enable cross-chain interoperability through omnichain smart contracts. The network employs a distributed architecture with validators for block production, observers for external chain monitoring, and signers using Threshold Signature Scheme cryptography to facilitate native asset management across connected blockchains. The mainnet supports Universal App deployment through its zEVM execution layer and ZRC-20 token standard, enabling smart contract functionality for non-smart contract chains including Bitcoin and Dogecoin. (L1, Live, Main Product) - [ZetaScan](https://thegrid.id/profiles/zetachain): ZetaScan is a blockchain explorer powered by Blockscout infrastructure that provides visibility into ZetaChain network activity, cross-chain transactions, smart contract verification, and account analytics. The explorer displays Cross-Chain Transactions with lifecycle tracking across source and destination chains, supports EVM and Cosmos SDK transaction indexing, and offers developer tools including APIs, GraphQL endpoints, and contract interaction interfaces for Universal App development. (Block Explorer, Live) ## Assets - [Zeta (ZETA)](https://thegrid.id/profiles/zetachain): ZETA is the native token of ZetaChain. It is used to pay transaction fees, secure the network through Proof of Stake staking, and participate in governance. For cross-chain messaging, ZETA is burned on the source chain and minted on the destination chain, serving as the medium of value transfer between connected blockchains without creating wrapped assets. (Native) ## Links - [Main](https://www.zetachain.com) - [Blog](https://www.zetachain.com/blog/page/1) - [Documentation](https://www.zetachain.com/docs) - [Whitepaper](https://www.zetachain.com/whitepaper.pdf) - [Governance](https://hub.zetachain.com/governance) - [Media Kit/branding](https://www.zetachain.com/zetachain-kit.zip) - [Terms of Service](https://www.zetachain.com/terms-of-use) - [Privacy policy](https://www.zetachain.com/privacy) - [Twitter / X](https://x.com/zetachain) - [Discord](https://discord.gg/zetachain) - [Telegram](https://t.me/zetachainofficial) - [LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/company/zetablockchain) - [GitHub](https://github.com/zeta-chain) - [YouTube](https://youtube.com/@zetachain) ## Legal This data is provided under two licensing models. Model 1 - open data. The open data core is licensed under the Open Database License (ODbL) — a copyleft/share-alike license allowing free use, modification, and sharing for any purpose. 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