Test networks, including testnet and devnet, are environments designed specifically for developers to build, experiment, and test their applications before deploying them on the main blockchain network. These networks provide a safe space for testing without the risks associated with using real funds.
Testnet and Devnet Funds Are Not Real
It is important to note that the funds used on testnet and devnet have no real-world value. They are simulated tokens provided for testing purposes only. These test funds cannot be converted to real assets, nor can they be sent or transferred to the mainnet. Their sole purpose is to help developers verify the functionality and security of their applications before launching them publicly.
How to Enable and Disable Testnet/Devnet
To enable or disable test networks in Phantom, follow these steps:
- Open Settings by clicking the icon in the top left corner.
- Navigate to Developer Settings.
- Toggle on Testnet.
- Choose between Solana or Ethereum:
- If you select Solana, you can choose between Testnet, Devnet, or Localnet.
- If you select Ethereum, you can choose between Ethereum Sepolia, Base Sepolia, or Polygon Amoy.
To disable test networks, simply toggle off Testnet in the same menu.
Understanding Solana and Ethereum Test Networks
When using test networks, it's important to understand the differences between the available options:
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Solana Networks:
- Testnet: A network used for stress testing protocol updates before they go live on the mainnet.
- Devnet: A developer-friendly network used for building and testing applications.
- Localnet: A local testing environment that allows developers to run their own private blockchain.
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Ethereum Networks:
- Ethereum Sepolia: A primary Ethereum testnet for smart contract testing.
- Base Sepolia: A testnet for the Base Layer 2 blockchain.
- Polygon Amoy: A testnet for Polygon’s Layer 2 scaling solution.
Why Use Testnet and Devnet?
Developers use testnet and devnet to:
- Test new features and smart contracts without financial risk.
- Identify and resolve potential bugs before deployment.
- Simulate real-world usage and interactions in a controlled environment.
- Gain confidence in their applications before transitioning to the mainnet.
Getting Started with Development
For those looking to develop applications that interact with Phantom, our developer documentation provides comprehensive guidance on integrating with Phantom Wallet and working within test environments.
For more information about developing applications that interact with Phantom, please visit our dev docs site here.