How to Bridge to Core: A Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Bitcoin DeFi

Want to take your Bitcoin beyond just holding? With Core’s Bridge, you can seamlessly move assets from major blockchains like Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Avalanche, and Base to Core—the largest Bitcoin DeFi ecosystem. Whether you’re looking to stake, trade, or interact with dApps, bridging is the first step to unlocking Bitcoin’s full potential.

This guide walks you through the quick and secure process of transferring assets to Core. In just a few minutes, you’ll be ready to explore Core Staking, DeFi protocols, and GameFi applications—all while keeping Bitcoin’s security at your back. Let’s get started!

What is the Core Bridge?

The Core Bridge is your gateway to Bitcoin DeFi, enabling seamless asset transfers between Core and major blockchains. Whether you're moving ETH, USDT, USDC, or CORE, this decentralized cross-chain solution ensures fast, secure, and efficient transactions without relying on intermediaries.

Supported Networks for Bridging:

• Ethereum
• BNB Chain
• Polygon
• Arbitrum
• Optimism (OP Mainnet)
• Avalanche
• Base

Powered by LayerZero, the Core Bridge guarantees decentralization and security, making it a critical tool for accessing Core’s BTCfi ecosystem. From staking and trading to DeFi and GameFi, bridging assets is the first step to unlocking everything Core has to offer.

Step 1: Prepare Your Web3 Wallet

Ensure you have a compatible EVM-compatible Web3 wallet such as MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet.

Add the Core blockchain to your wallet by entering the following details:

• Network Name: Core Blockchain Mainnet
• RPC URL: https://rpc.ankr.com/core
• Chain ID: 1116
• Currency Symbol: CORE
• Block Explorer URL: https://scan.coredao.org

🚨 Important: You will need native gas fees on both the originating blockchain (e.g., ETH for Ethereum, BNB for BNB Chain) and CORE for transactions on Core.

Step 2: Connect to the Core Bridge

• Visit the Core Bridge at https://bridge.coredao.org
• Click Connect Wallet and approve the connection in your Web3 wallet
• Select the network you want to bridge from (Ethereum, BNB Chain, Avalanche, etc.)

Step 3: Choose the Asset and Amount

• Select the token you want to bridge (e.g., ETH, USDT, USDC, CORE)
• Enter the amount you want to transfer, ensuring you leave enough for gas fees on the originating blockchain
• Double-check the destination address to avoid errors

Step 4: Confirm and Initiate the Transfer

• Review all details carefully before proceeding
• Click Bridge and approve the transaction in your Web3 wallet
• Wait for the confirmation—transaction times vary depending on network congestion but typically complete within minutes

🚨 Security Reminder:
Always double-check the wallet address before confirming your transfer. Transactions on the blockchain are irreversible.

Step 5: Verify Funds on Core

• Once the transfer is complete, check your balance on Core Scan
• If the funds do not appear immediately, try refreshing your wallet or checking the transaction status on LayerZero’s Explorer

What’s Next? Exploring the Core Ecosystem

• Stake CORE and BTC: Earn yield by participating in Core Staking
• Trade on Core DEXs: Use platforms like Glyph Exchange to swap assets
• Explore dApps: Engage with DeFi, GameFi, and NFT platforms built on Core
• Join Core Ignition: Participate in Ignition Season 2 to earn rewards

Troubleshooting and FAQs

• Why haven’t my funds arrived?
  • Check the LayerZero Explorer to track your transaction
  • Ensure you selected the correct network and wallet address
• Do I need CORE for gas fees?
  • Yes, keep a small amount of CORE in your wallet for transactions on the Core blockchain
• Can I bridge Bitcoin?
  • Bitcoin holders can use Self-Custodial Bitcoin Staking or explore Core’s ecosystem of BTCfi dApps

Final Thoughts: Bridge, Stake, and Explore

Bridging to Core unlocks new opportunities for Bitcoin holders and DeFi enthusiasts. With a growing ecosystem and seamless cross-chain compatibility, Core provides the best environment for leveraging Bitcoin’s security with DeFi’s flexibility.

➡️ Now that you're on Core, dive into the BTCfi ecosystem—stake, swap, and engage with DeFi with ease!

Ready to get started? Visit Core Bridge and explore Bitcoin DeFi today!