> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs-core.allbridge.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs-core.allbridge.io/product/how-does-allbridge-core-work/messaging-protocols.md).

# Messaging protocols

Every Allbridge Core transfer has three steps: a transaction on the source chain, a cross-chain message that proves it, and a transaction on the destination chain. The message never moves tokens by itself. It only lets the destination chain verify that the source-side burn or lock happened.

Which messaging layer is used depends on the transfer mechanism of the route:

| Mechanism      | Asset                   | Cross-chain verification    |
| -------------- | ----------------------- | --------------------------- |
| CCTP / CCTP V2 | USDC                    | Circle attestation service  |
| xReserve       | USDC-backed stablecoins | Circle xReserve attestation |
| OFT            | USDT, USDe              | LayerZero                   |

The UI shows which mechanism is used for the selected route, together with the relayer fee and the expected transfer time.

{% hint style="warning" %}

## Allbridge Messaging and Wormhole messaging are deprecated. They were the messaging options for pool-based transfers, which were discontinued after the July 2026 security incident.

{% endhint %}