Blockchain: An introduction to Mainnet and Testnet
Mainnet
Mainnet is the label given to a live or production blockchain network that has been launched and is being used for real transactions. This is the network that users interact with to send and receive cryptocurrencies, execute smart contracts, and engage in other activities that make use of the blockchain's features. The mainnet is the final version of the blockchain, representing the fully functional and operational version of the network.
Examples of mainnets include:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Solana (SOL)
Testnet
On the other hand, a testnet is a parallel blockchain network that is used for testing and development purposes. Testnets serve a crucial purpose in the development and maintenance of blockchain networks. They are primarily used by developers to test individual smart contract issues, as well as to experiment with new features and security updates before deploying them to the mainnet. This helps to ensure that the mainnet remains secure and functional, as any bugs or vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed before they become a problem for real users. Additionally, testnets allow developers to test new features and upgrades for major blockchain updates before their global launch. This provides an opportunity for developers to refine and improve the features and performance of the network before it is deployed on a larger scale, ultimately benefiting the end-users of the network.
Each testnet has its own name, examples of these include:
- Ropsten (Ethereum)
- Rinkeby (Ethereum)
- Kovan (Ethereum)
- Görli (Ethereum)
- Matic Mumbai (Polygon)
- Robsten (Bitcoin)
- Testnet3 (Bitcoin)
- Floonet (Lightning Network)
- Zebra (Zcash)
- Testnet (Cardano)
- Emulator (NEO)
Conclusion
The main difference between a mainnet and a testnet is that the mainnet is the real, live version of the blockchain network, while the testnet is a separate network that is used for testing and development. The mainnet is the final, fully functional version of the blockchain that is accessible to the general public, while the testnet is a tool used by developers to ensure that the network is secure and functioning as intended before deploying it to the mainnet.