The activation of the Pectra testnet uncovered problems in clients following modifications to deposit contract configurations on Ethereum testnets. While Sepolia’s recovery process was uncomplicated and the network has completely recovered since, Holesky faced significant inactivity leaks as part of its recovery method.
The Holesky network has now reached finalization, yet the validators that exited will take around one year before they are completely removed from the validator set (¹). Although stakers can experiment with deposits, consolidations, and other functionalities of Pectra, the length of the exit queue hinders Holesky’s ability to be used for testing the entire validator lifecycle within a reasonable period.
In response to this, a new testnet has been initiated: Hoodi. This will commence the Pectra network upgrade at epoch 2048 (Wed. March 26, 2025 07:37:12 UTC).
Looking ahead, staking operators and infrastructure providers should utilize Hoodi for validator trials. To facilitate the transition, the Holesky testnet will remain operational until September 2025. Beyond validator exits, all other Pectra functionalities can be evaluated on Holesky.
Overview of testnets and their objectives
- Holesky: Validators and staking providers (Anticipated end of life on 30th September, 2025). Client developers will also utilize Holesky to test gas limit enhancements and perform other protocol stress assessments.
- Sepolia: Application and tool developers (Anticipated end of life on 30th September, 2026)
- Hoodi: Validators and staking providers (Anticipated end of life on 30th September, 2028)
- Proposed Sepolia successor: Expected launch in March 2026
¹: For a more comprehensive understanding of how the Beacon chain exit queue operates, refer to https://hackmd.io/@mikeneuder/eli5-ethereum-validator-exits
