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Layer 1
A layer 1 is a base blockchain, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, that records and settles transactions itself. It has its own network of nodes, its own block producers and its own consensus mechanism — the rules nodes use to agree on the history.
What it means for you. Fees and confirmation times on a layer 1 are set by that chain alone, and a payment it settles cannot be reversed by any company. Coins on different layer 1s are separate: bitcoin cannot be sent to an Ethereum address, and moving value between them needs a bridge or an exchange.
Source: ethereum.org: Layer 2 (Layer 1 vs Layer 2) · checked 4 October 2026
Sidechain
A sidechain is a separate blockchain that runs alongside a main chain such as Ethereum, with its own validators and consensus rules, and is linked to it by a two-way bridge. Unlike a rollup, it does not post its transaction data back to the main chain.
What it means for you. A sidechain's security comes from its own validators, not from Ethereum, so if they act dishonestly Ethereum cannot correct it. Tokens moved there through the bridge are usually burned on one side and minted on the other, so their value depends on that bridge and its contracts working as intended.
Source: ethereum.org: Sidechains · checked 4 October 2026