- Ethereum will end the Holesky testnet by September 2025 for network transition.
- Holesky faces issues, including a clogged validator exit queue, blocking Pectra tests.
- Ethereum introduces Hoodi testnet for Pectra upgrade, activating March 26, 2025.
Ethereum developers have confirmed plans to end the Holesky testnet support by September 2025. This move marks the next phase in Ethereum’s testnet transition. Holesky, launched in September 2023, has served as one of Ethereum’s two main testnets, used for testing staking, infrastructure, and protocol developments. Ethereum has previously held back support from other testnets like Kiln, Ropsten, and Rinkeby.
Holesky Testnet Issues
Holesky has faced disruptions during tests for the Pectra upgrade. Despite efforts to fix these issues, Holesky is unable to support critical testing scenarios. One of the major problems is a clogged validator exit queue. Validators exiting the queue could take up to a year, making the Pectra testing impractical further.
To overcome this challenge, Ethereum developers have introduced a new testnet, called Hoodi, which will be activated on March 26, 2025. It will serve as the main testing ground for the Pectra upgrade. Ethereum plans to release this upgrade on the mainnet in the second quarter of 2025. The Ethereum Foundation has urged infrastructure providers and staking operators to move to Hoodi for validator testing.
Future Use of Holesky
While Holesky plans to retire this year, it will be currently functional. Several plans were made for Holesky to be used internally for stress tests or other programs including experiments like gas limit changes and protocol level testing. In this case, these tests will be helpful for future updates and modifications. The specified Holesky testnet will remain useful in such capacities before it is retired.
Related: Metaplanet Invests $12.5M in 150 BTC Amid Market Correction
Ethereum’s market performance has also been affected by recent downturns. The token has dropped 26.29% in value over the last month. As of press time, Ethereum is trading at $2,026, with little change in the past 24 hours.
The transition from Holesky to the phase-out and the overall release of Hoodi is prominent in Ethereum’s development process. These changes are the result of the continuous improvement of the Ethereum project, to become a reliable and efficient system. It is an indication of management’s intention to innovate besides showing growth.
