Mainnet vs Testnet

Mainnet

Stands for "main network". This is where your production app will run.

Mainnet refers to the primary network where actual transactions with real digital assets (cryptocurrencies or tokens) have real value.

❗️

All blockchain transactions are final. If you send assets like BTC to the wrong address over Mainnet, you'll lose real money!

Mainnet characteristics

1. Real Value Transactions: Transactions on the mainnet involve real cryptocurrencies or tokens that hold actual value.
2. Security: Mainnet has the full security features of the blockchain protocol, including consensus mechanisms (like Proof of Work or Proof of Stake) and other security measures to ensure the integrity and immutability of the data.
3. Public Ledger: Data on the mainnet is publicly available and immutable, meaning once a transaction is recorded, it cannot be altered.
4. Incentives: Miners or validators on the mainnet are rewarded with real cryptocurrency for processing and validating transactions.
5. Production Environment: Mainnet is used by end-users and developers for deploying and interacting with decentralized applications (dApps) in a live, production environment.

Testnet

Stands for "testing network" where operations are "free"

Testnet is a separate blockchain network used primarily for testing and development purposes. It allows developers to experiment with new features, run dApps, and identify bugs without risking real digital assets.

Testnet characteristics

1. No Real Value Transactions: Transactions on the testnet involve test cryptocurrencies or tokens, which do not hold any real-world value.
2. Testing Environment: Testnet is designed for developers to test and experiment with blockchain features, smart contracts, and dApps.
3. Frequent Resets: Testnets may be reset periodically, meaning data can be wiped or altered to refresh the testing environment.
4. Accessibility: Test cryptocurrencies are usually obtained for free from faucets, making it easy to experiment without financial cost.
5. No Incentives: Miners or validators on the testnet do not receive real cryptocurrency rewards.

Good to Know

• Tatum accounts come for Free with x2 API keys:
  • Mainnet
  • Testnet
• We strongly encourage new users to start their operations over testnet, where coins hold no real value. Find more about Faucets with testnet coins in the following article.