Polkadot Advances Agile Coretime Framework

Polkadot is progressing towards its Agile Coretime framework by allowing permissionless channel openings between system chains, such as Asset Hub, eliminating the need for approval through Polkadot’s OpenGov.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy to enhance inter-parachain communication in preparation for upcoming network upgrades.

Transition from HRMP to XCMP

Currently, Polkadot’s HRMP (Horizontal Relay-routed Message Passing) channels are the primary message transport protocol, routing all messages through the Relay Chain. However, these channels will soon be replaced by the more efficient XCMP (Cross-Chain Message Passing) system. In the meantime, parachains will continue to utilize HRMP channels, which require a two-step process to set up.

To initiate an HRMP channel between two parachains, the process starts with one chain sending a request to the other, which must then accept the request, both actions occurring on the Relay Chain.

Establishing channels between parachains and system chains like Asset Hub has been simplified. A bi-directional channel can now be set up using a specific call executed on the Relay Chain via an XCM program.

Components of Agile Coretime

Agile Coretime operates by breaking the process into essential components. A “core” is a virtual unit on the Polkadot Chain designed to handle transactions and execute smart contracts for parachains.

The entire system is overseen by the “Coretime Chain,” a specialized parachain charged with managing the purchase, renewal, and distribution of these computational resources.

The Polkadot Chain acts as the network’s central hub, ensuring security, consensus, and facilitating cross-chain communication.

Resource Acquisition Options

Agile Coretime offers two pathways for projects to acquire computational resources: 1. On-demand buy allows projects to obtain blockspace as needed, ideal for smaller projects with varying requirements. 2. Bulk purchasing suits projects with stable and predictable needs, allowing them to secure blockspace up to 28 days in advance, represented as non-fungible tokens (NFTs).