GlossaryBeginner
Testnet
A separate version of a blockchain used for testing, with no real value at stake.
A testnet is a version of a blockchain network set up specifically for testing. It behaves similarly to the real network but uses tokens that have no real-world value, so developers and users can experiment safely.
Testnets are commonly used to try out new features, test smart contracts, or practice using a wallet before doing so with real funds on mainnet.
Examples
- Developers often deploy and test a new smart contract on a testnet before releasing it on mainnet.
- Testnet tokens are typically free to obtain and cannot be exchanged for real-world value.