Key Insights:

• Ethereum developers unveiled a fresh test network named Hoodi, set to evaluate the blockchain’s forthcoming ‘Pectra’ upgrade.
• Hoodi was established after unsuccessful attempts to test Pectra on Ethereum’s earlier testnets, Holesky and Sepolia, which encountered configuration issues preventing successful finalizations.
• Networks like Holesky, Sepolia, and Hoodi simulate the primary Ethereum network, allowing developers to trial code amendments or significant upgrades like Pectra in a controlled setting before mainnet deployment.

The Hoodi network was launched on a Monday with plans for the Pectra upgrade to go live on March 26. If successful, it is expected to advance to Ethereum’s mainnet approximately 30 days thereafter, according to core developers.

Hoodi was inspired by improper Pectra tests documented in the aforementioned testnets. The newly created testnet will also be utilized for future testing initiatives.

Hoodi replicates Ethereum’s mainnet, boasting an identical validator set. Developer Parithosh Jayanthi emphasized that Hoodi aims to serve as a test bed for Ethereum staking pools and node operators to evaluate their systems.

Unlike Sepolia, which operates as a closed network for developers, Holesky features an extended validator set meant to explore scalability issues. Conversely, the Pectra upgrade encompasses enhancements aimed at improving the Ethereum user experience and efficiency for users and developers alike.

Further reading: Ethereum Developers Launch New Testnet for Pectra Upgrade After Earlier Setbacks