Direct channels are payment connections established between two Lightning nodes. Once a channel is opened and funded, the two parties can send and receive Bitcoin instantly and typically at minimal fees.

Only the opening and closing of a channel are recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain. All other transactions occur off-chain, within the channel itself.

A single channel can support unlimited transactions between the two parties for as long as the channel remains open, allowing for high-speed, low-cost payments without placing additional load on the blockchain.

Direct channels are the foundation of the Lightning Network's efficiency and scalability.