Following the evaluation of the Pectra fork, a prosperous interop event, and four development networks, we are excited to unveil the inaugural short-term Pectra testnet: Mekong!
The Mekong testnet encompasses all the EIPs suggested for the forthcoming Pectra fork on Ethereum. These modifications consist of UX enhancements through EIP-7702, staking revisions via EIP-7251, adjustments to deposit and exit mechanisms through EIP-6110/ EIP-7002 and much more. A comprehensive roster of the EIPs and the specifications implemented can be accessed here.
Mekong is designed to be a testing ground for wallet developers to explore UX adjustments and for stakers to build assurance in the upcoming alterations. This testnet will be temporary and is entirely equipped with all the planned EIPs for Pectra. We may observe some minor specification modifications or additional lesser EIPs, but the features incorporated here will end up in existing public testnets and ultimately Ethereum mainnet.
Getting started
To begin utilizing Mekong, kindly visit the network’s landing page. There, you can include the network to your browser wallet, examine block explorers, request funds from the faucet, and connect to a JSON RPC endpoint.
There are several UX-specific EIPs in this upgrade, and we are eager to see how wallets will leverage them. Therefore, please test the changes and provide us with your insights. Answers to frequently asked questions can be located here.
Running a node
Please consult the guide here to run a node on the Mekong testnet. Similar to Ethereum mainnet, you will need to operate an Execution and Consensus layer node.
Stakers
There are significant changes to the staking process anticipated in Pectra, and the Mekong testnet will serve as the initial platform to trial them. Adjustments have been made to deposit and withdrawal procedures, so please refer to the FAQ available here for further details. Make sure to read the FAQ for guidance on activating a validator on Mekong.
Does this influence Ethereum Mainnet, Holesky or Sepolia in any way?
No. Mekong is a new testnet and does not impact other Ethereum networks. Nonetheless, testing on Mekong will provide insights for deploying the Pectra upgrade on different Ethereum networks.
As a non-staking node operator, what steps should I take?
As Mekong is a new testnet, you would not need to take any action if managing your node on Holesky/Sepolia or on Ethereum Mainnet. However, if you aim to operate a node on the new network, follow the instructions and use the version of your Ethereum client specified in the link here.
As a staker, what should I do?
Please consult the section “As a non-staking node operator, what steps should I take?” to start by running a node. Afterward, you can proceed to deposit and operate a validator on the new Mekong network.
We suggest reviewing the Pectra FAQ. It contains pertinent details about fundamental actions you may wish to take as a staker.
As an application or tooling developer, what actions should I take?
Developers of applications and tooling should assess the upgrade modifications to ensure any necessary fixes are applied, or to grasp how to utilize the newly introduced features.
Wallet developers should analyze the upgrade, particularly for EIP-7702 to confirm that the latest capabilities are accommodated.
Why “Mekong”?
The Devcon scheduled before the Pectra upgrade will occur in Southeast Asia. We aimed to choose a name that connects with this region. The Mekong River, traversing several Southeast Asian nations, appeared to be an appropriate selection.
My question wasn’t addressed, where can I find more information?
We suggest reading the full FAQ here. If your question remains unanswered, feel free to inquire at one of these locations:
Cover image by Jules Nehlig
