A testnet is a blockchain that is still being developed but is open to software writers so they can experiment with their own programs. A testnet allows software writers to check that their code runs properly before they make possibly costly deployments to a mainnet; this works for both seasoned blockchain developers as well as students looking to polish their skills. It also gives an opportunity for everyone to give feedback about the performance of the platform. A testnet environment provides the virtual machine, a blockchain and a faucet for test tokens so that the developer has everything they need for the testing and verification of their use cases, avoiding the mainnet and the use of real tokens for their tests.
Welcome to the Cardano testnet portal. Here you will find information and instructions for developers who wish to use the Cardano testnets. There are currently two testnets available, both for smart contracts. The first to be launched, the KEVM testnet, allows you to experiment with any smart contract that runs on the Ethereum virtual machine (EVM). The second, the IELE testnet, is the first smart contracts virtual machine to use formal semantics, which delivers improved security and performance.
As Cardano development progresses, more testnets will be available here. We encourage you to read about them and to play around with the features they offer. Most importantly, we look forward to your feedback, which will help us to make Cardano best in class.
What is a testnet?
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The KEVM is a high quality, formally verified smart contract virtual machine compatible with the Ethereum virtual machine (EVM). Formally specified in the K framework, the KEVM uses formal semantics for elements such as the configuration and transition rules of EVM, resulting in a more secure virtual machine for smart contracts.
The IELE testnet underpins the path to a more secure, robust smart contract design for Cardano. It is a new register-based virtual machine for smart contracts built to take account of the lessons learned from LLVM. IELE aims to provide the most secure and high-performance platform for running smart contracts, while also delivering the most flexible set of interfaces possible to execute different programming languages.
Need support?
Read the FAQ section, which we are building up as a resource where you can find answers to your testnet questions.
FAQ Section