Hemi
Hemi is a modular Layer-2 protocol that integrates Bitcoin and Ethereum to enable superior scaling, security, and interoperability.
Overview
Hemi is a modular Layer-2 blockchain protocol designed to enhance scaling, security, and interoperability by combining Bitcoin and Ethereum into a unified supernetwork. Unlike traditional approaches that treat Bitcoin and Ethereum as separate ecosystems, Hemi integrates them to unlock new levels of programmability and asset portability. At its core is the Hemi Virtual Machine (hVM), which embeds a full Bitcoin node within an Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), allowing developers to build decentralized applications (hApps) that leverage the strengths of both blockchains.
The protocol includes the Hemi Bitcoin Kit (hBK), which provides smart contracts with detailed, indexed views of Bitcoin's state. This enables Bitcoin DeFi applications that were previously difficult or impossible to implement on an EVM alone. Hemi also introduces a Proof-of-Proof (PoP) consensus mechanism that achieves transaction finality with security surpassing Bitcoin’s own within hours. Its "Tunnels" feature facilitates trustless cross-chain asset transfers, enhancing interoperability between Hemi and other blockchains.
Hemi supports extensibility by allowing external projects to create their own chains secured by Hemi’s technology, effectively offering Bitcoin-Security-as-a-Service. Advanced on-chain asset management features such as routing, time-locks, and password protection further improve security and usability. Developers can get started by using the open-source SDKs and comprehensive documentation available on Hemi’s website and GitHub, with active community support via Discord.
The Problem
Developers face challenges building scalable, secure decentralized applications that leverage both Bitcoin and Ethereum ecosystems. Existing Layer-2 solutions often treat these blockchains as isolated silos, limiting interoperability and programmability. Additionally, Bitcoin’s limited smart contract capabilities restrict DeFi innovation on its network.
The Solution
Key Features
Hemi Bitcoin Kit (hBK)
Provides smart contracts with granular, indexed views of Bitcoin state to enable Bitcoin DeFi applications.
Trustless Cross-chain Tunnels
Facilitates secure and seamless asset transfers between Hemi and other blockchains.
Extensibility for Custom Chains
Allows external projects to create chains secured by Hemi’s technology, offering Bitcoin-Security-as-a-Service.
Key Strengths
How Developers Use Hemi
Building Bitcoin-Ethereum Interoperable DeFi Apps
Developers use Hemi to create decentralized finance applications that leverage Bitcoin’s security and Ethereum’s programmability simultaneously.
Cross-chain Asset Transfers
Projects implement trustless bridges using Hemi’s Tunnels to move assets securely between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other chains.
Launching Custom Chains with Bitcoin Security
Teams build new blockchains secured by Hemi’s protocol to benefit from Bitcoin-level security and interoperability.
Works Well WithBitcoinEthereumOptimismAvalanche
Binance Smart Chain
EVM Chains
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Pricing
Open Source | |
|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | Free |
| Price (Annual) | Free |
| Messaging | N/A |
| Support | Community support via Discord and GitHub |
| Analytics |
Resources
Hemi provides extensive documentation covering its architecture, virtual machine, Bitcoin integration, and developer tutorials. Resources include guides for getting started, network details, contract addresses, and tooling support. The community is active on Discord, and the codebase is open source on GitHub.