Testnet

A testnet, in the realm of cryptocurrencies, refers to a separate blockchain network specifically designed for testing purposes. It allows people involved in the crypto industry, such as companies, protocols, and blockchain networks, to experiment and evaluate their developments without risking real assets or interfering with the mainnet, the live blockchain network. Testnets simulate the functionalities of a blockchain network, enabling developers to identify and rectify any potential issues or vulnerabilities before deploying their projects on the mainnet. This testing environment serves as a crucial tool for ensuring the security, efficiency, and reliability of various crypto-related applications, including decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, smart contracts, and crypto exchanges. By utilizing testnets, developers can refine their innovations, enhance user experience, and mitigate potential risks, ultimately fostering the growth and advancement of the broader crypto ecosystem.

Tech

Avalanche Blockchain's Largest-Ever Upgrade Goes Live on Testnet

Avalanche9000 is meant to cut the cost of sending transactions and running validators, making it easier to build apps on the network, crypto's eighth-largest.

By Margaux NijkerkNov 25, 2024

Tech

Ethereum's Dencun Upgrade Reaches Final ‘Holesky’ Testnet, Starting Countdown to Data 'Blobs'

The test simulated “proto-danksharding,” a technical feature aimed at reducing the cost of transactions for rollups as well as making data availability cheaper.

By Margaux NijkerkFeb 7, 2024

Tech

Ethereum Developers Set Timeline for Final ‘Dencun’ Testnet Upgrades

Developers will run through Dencun on the Sepolia and Holesky testnets on Jan. 30 and Feb. 7, putting the upgrade on track to reach the main network in late February or early March.

By Margaux NijkerkJan 25, 2024

Ethereum Foundation researcher Dankrad Feist, namesake for "proto-danksharding," a major component of Ethereum's upcoming "Dencun" upgrade. (Bradley Keoun)

Tech

Liquidity-Focused Berachain Opens Layer-1 Testnet to Public

Berachain's pseudonymous founders plan "to accomplish more with less initial resources."

By Danny NelsonJan 11, 2024

The current crypto bear market continues. (mana5280/Unsplash)

Tech

Ethereum Developers Appear Successful in Second Attempt at Holesky Test Network Launch

The original planned launch date of Holesky, on Sept. 15, was supposed to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Ethereum’s historic “Merge” transition. But things didn't go so smoothly. Now developers are trying again.

By Margaux NijkerkSep 28, 2023

Ethereum Foundation's Parithosh Jayanthi, helping to host a livestream as developers of the blockchain launched the new "Holesky" test network. (EthStaker/YouTube)

Tech

Ethereum’s Holesky Testnet Fails to Launch, in Rare Tech Misstep for the Blockchain

Developers of the Ethereum blockchain say there was a misconfiguration in the genesis files of the test network, and now they plan to try again in about two weeks.

By Margaux NijkerkSep 17, 2023

Ethereum's latest ambition, to launch a new test network, quickly deflated. (Pixabay)

Tech

Ethereum Blockchain Launches 'Holesky' Test Network, on First Anniversary of Historic 'Merge'

The debut of the testing system – designed to be twice as big as the main network so developers can simulate massive scaling, comes a year after Ethereum completed its historic "Merge" shift to a "proof-of-stake" model from the original "proof-of-work" setup that Bitcoin uses.

By Margaux NijkerkSep 15, 2023