Glossary — Blockchain & Crypto Fundamentals
What is Mainnet?
1 min read Updated
Mainnet is the primary production blockchain network where real transactions with real economic value occur — as opposed to testnets which use valueless tokens for development.
WHY IT MATTERS
Mainnet is where it counts — live blockchain with real money, users, and consequences. When a protocol 'launches on mainnet,' smart contracts are deployed with actual tokens and financial risk.
The distinction matters for development workflow. Build on testnets, audit contracts, deploy to mainnet. Bugs on testnet cost nothing; bugs on mainnet can cost millions.
Some protocols run 'mainnet beta' periods — deployed with real funds but with safety measures like deposit caps and emergency pause functions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Mainnet vs testnet?
Mainnet: real tokens, real value, permanent transactions. Testnets: free tokens, no value, disposable. Mainnet is production; testnet is staging.
Can I test on mainnet?
Technically yes, but it costs real money. Best practice: thorough testnet testing first, then limited mainnet deployment with small amounts.
How to connect to mainnet?
Through an RPC provider (Alchemy, Infura) or your own node. Wallets connect to mainnet by default.