Polkadot is an open-source protocol that wants to enable cross-blockchain transfers of any type of data or asset. This means that Polkadot gives you the ability to interoperate with a wide variety of blockchains within the Polkadot network. The native token DOT serves three main purposes: Governance, Staking and Bonding. Governance means that DOT holders are the ones who control the protocol; Staking makes the network more secure by rewarding good actors; and lastly, Bonding makes sure that bonding tokens verify that new parachains are useful.