# Technical Overview

#### Runes Protocol

The Runes Protocol is a set of decentralized, open-source smart contracts designed to facilitate cross-chain interactions. It operates on a layered architecture ensuring scalability, security, and interoperability.

**Key Features:**

* **Cross-Chain Communication:** Enabling transfer of data and value between different blockchain networks.
* **Smart Contract Capability:** Allowing for complex operations and interactions across blockchains.

#### BRC-20 Token Standard

The BRC-20 is a token standard similar to Ethereum’s ERC-20 but optimized for the Bitcoin network, facilitating token creation and management while maintaining compatibility with the EVM architecture.

**Key Features:**

* **Interoperability:** Ensures that tokens can move freely between Bitcoin and EVM chains.
* **Scalability:** Designed to handle high transaction volumes typical of decentralized applications.