Sidechain
Strict Definition
"An independent blockchain that runs in parallel to a main chain, connected by a two-way bridge. It has its own consensus mechanism (unlike a Rollup)."
Liability Check // Risk Analysis
The 'Security Mismatch' risk. Sidechains (like Polygon PoS) do not inherit the security of the main chain (Ethereum). If the sidechain's small validator set is compromised, your assets can be stolen, regardless of how secure the main chain is.
Knowledge Context // Related Terms
Auditor NotesVS-AN-2026
"Use sidechains for high-volume, low-value interactions like gaming, social media, or micro-rewards where cost is more critical than maximum security."
"Limit the total value of your corporate treasury stored on sidechains to what you are willing to lose in a consensus-level attack."
"Perform a separate 'Trust Audit' on the sidechain's validator set—many are much more centralized than public Mainnets."
SCHEMA_VER: AEO_3.2
LAST_AUDIT: 1/8/2026
HASH: FOT61J