EEA Unveils Version 1 of DLT Interoperability Specification

19 September 2024

Today, the EEA unveiled version 1 of its DLT Interoperability Specification.

Overview of the Specification

This specification delivers a standardized framework that facilitates interactions among various blockchains and distributed ledgers. Adhering to this standard diminishes development time and minimizes errors by providing development teams with a consistent set of interfaces, obviating the need for custom solutions for each network pairing a developer intends to connect.

The specification was crafted by the EEA’s Crosschain Interoperability Working Group. This group emerged from earlier efforts surrounding interoperability, as EEA members recognized in 2019 the necessity for general solutions moving forward. The working group has already disseminated significant guidance for crosschain interoperability, focusing on essential aspects such as decentralization and security, alongside critical technical specifications for identifying blockchains and relevant distributed ledgers. They also collaborate with various organizations that are developing software or standards in this vital domain.

Weijia Zhang, co-chair of the Working Group from Wanchain, states:

“The future of Web3 will consist of numerous, if not countless, unique blockchain networks, making interoperability standards and specifications essential for creating a unified decentralized network of blockchains. The launch of v1 of EEA’s DLT interoperability specification marks a significant milestone, providing guidance and reference implementations for cross-chain messages, data, and functions. We eagerly anticipate persevering in our collaboration with colleagues, partners, and other blockchain standardization entities.”

The current specification equips the necessary tools to facilitate “full-stack” interoperability, ensuring that messages transmitted between two networks can be relied upon while facilitating the development of crosschain applications that integrate smart contracts across different platforms, paving the way for the next generation of robust and scalable enterprise solutions.

Implementation Insights

EEA has recently published a case study detailing one application of this specification in a payment-vs-delivery settlement system that operates across multiple blockchains. The group is also in ongoing discussions with several other developers who are deploying, or plan to deploy, the specification for production environments and will continue to release case studies while considering feedback that may indicate necessary or beneficial adjustments.

Anaïs Ofranc, co-chair of the Working Group from Qualitax, remarks:

“With the launch of v1 of the DLT Interoperability Specification, we are thrilled to present an open standard that reflects our dedication to fostering a collaborative and vendor-neutral interoperability ecosystem. This specification signifies a crucial advancement toward seamless operations across varied distributed ledger technologies, ensuring that innovation can flourish irrespective of underlying platforms.”

About the EEA:

The EEA is a global collective of blockchain pioneers, early adopters, innovators, developers, and enterprises. We are propelling business growth in Ethereum through professional and commercial support, advocacy, research, standards development, and ecosystem trust services.

For further details regarding the EEA’s DLT Interoperability Specifications or for information on how to get involved with its Working Groups, please reach out to EEA’s Technical Program Director Chaals Nevile at chaals@entethalliance.org.

For inquiries about EEA membership, please contact membership@entethalliance.org or visit https://entethalliance.org/become-a-member/