Polkadot (DOT) is a blockchain platform and cryptocurrency designed to enable interoperability between different blockchains. It allows independent blockchains to communicate and transact with each other without the need for a trusted third party.
Polkadot's native cryptocurrency is the DOT token, which serves various functions within the network, including governance, staking for network operation, and bonding to connect chains as parachains. Created by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood, Polkadot operates on a sharded multi-chain network, with a central Relay Chain coordinating parallel chains known as Parachains. The network uses a nominated proof-of-stake consensus algorithm and can handle up to approximately 100 parachains, offering scalability, security, and cross-chain functionality.
Polkadot aims to create a fully decentralized web by facilitating data and asset transfers between blockchains and supporting the development of decentralized applications (DApps) within its ecosystem.