Polkadot is an open-source protocol that connects blockchains. Any developer or company can build a parachain on the Polkadot network. A parachain is a parallel blockchain which, once connected to the Polkadot network, becomes interoperable with other blockchains on the network. Polkadot’s native token is DOT and grants owners governance rights, such as determining network fees and voting on upgrades. DOT owners can also stake their tokens.