Incentivized testnets serve as a gamified approach to evaluating new blockchain networks. Validators who complete challenges earn token rewards. Aptos stands out as one of the most intriguing ongoing incentivized testnets. This guide explores its challenges, eligibility criteria, rewards, and more.
What Is an Incentivized Testnet?
An incentivized testnet is a structured program to evaluate a new blockchain network. Participants receive rewards for completing gamified challenges, covering:
- Transaction validation
- Consensus mechanisms
- Security protocols
- User interfaces
- Other critical blockchain functions
Most Layer 1 (L1) blockchains launch testnets using dummy tokens to mitigate financial risks. However, attracting testers can be challenging. Token rewards make testing competitive, boosting participation and bug detection before mainnet launches.
Inspired by crypto bounty programs, incentivized testnets require technical skills like:
- Operating nodes
- Simulating attacks
- Running staking pools
- Validating transactions
Participants earn points for completed tasks, with rewards based on leaderboard rankings. Rewards are typically paid in cryptocurrency post-mainnet launch (e.g., Aptos tokens or USDT).
Aptos Incentivized Testnet Overview
About Aptos Blockchain
Aptos is a new L1 blockchain leveraging technology originally developed for Meta’s Diem project. Key features include:
- Move Programming Language: Enhances security and scalability.
- High Throughput: Processes up to 160,000 transactions per second with sub-second finality.
- Ecosystem Partners: Collaborations with projects like Pontem Network for foundational dApps.
👉 Explore Aptos’ official website for the latest updates.
Testnet Roadmap
The Aptos Incentivized Testnet (AIT) runs in four stages:
| Stage | Participants | Status | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIT1 | 100 | Completed (May–Jun 2022) | Node deployment and liveness |
| AIT2 | 100–500 | Registration open | Enhanced security and scalability tests |
| AIT3 | 1,000 | TBA | Network upgrades and governance |
| AIT4 | Unlimited | TBA | Full ecosystem stress testing |
Eligibility and Selection
Requirements:
- Operate a validator node.
- Pass node health checks.
- Confirm age (18+) and region (excludes US and restricted territories).
Selection Process:
- Geographic diversity prioritized.
- 10% of slots reserved for top GitHub/Discord contributors.
Rewards and Token Details
Incentives Breakdown
- Base Reward: 500 Aptos tokens per successful participant (locked for 1 year).
- Top Validators: Additional 5,000, 2,500, or 1,000 tokens for top 3 in AIT2/AIT3.
Aptos Token ($APTOS)
- No official token yet; rewards distributed post-mainnet launch.
- Caution: Beware of scams—Aptos has not announced an IDO.
Validator Success Criteria
Each AIT stage has unique requirements:
- AIT1: 95% node availability (reduced to 5% voting participation for partial rewards).
- AIT2: 97% availability + top 75% consensus votes.
- AIT3: Includes network upgrade participation.
👉 Learn more about staking rewards in our detailed guide.
Testnet Challenges and Tasks
Tasks evolve per stage, covering:
- Security: DDoS prevention, validator subcommittees.
- Performance: Parallel transaction execution, mempool organization.
- Features: NFTs, DeFi prototyping, smart contracts.
Aptoverse: Non-technical participants can join ambassador programs for creative challenges.
AIT1 Results and Lessons
- Success: Bootstrapped decentralized testnet; critical bug fixed.
Challenges:
- DDoS attacks affected node performance.
- Poorly configured nodes admitted.
Improvements for AIT2:
- Stricter node checks.
- Enhanced anti-DDoS measures.
Other Notable Incentivized Testnets
| Blockchain | Program | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmos | Game of Stakes | First major adversarial testnet (2018) |
| Cardano | Shelley Testnet | Non-technical participation via staking |
| Solana | Tour de Sol | Year-long program with $500 SOL rewards |
Conclusion
Incentivized testnets like Aptos’ AIT are revolutionizing blockchain testing by:
- Encouraging validator participation through rewards.
- Ensuring robust, decentralized mainnet launches.
Aptos’ 30,000+ validator applications highlight its potential as a top L1 in 2023. Stay updated via Pontem Network’s ecosystem developments.
FAQs
Q: When will Aptos launch its mainnet?
A: Scheduled for Q3 2022, pending testnet completion.
Q: Can US residents earn Aptos testnet rewards?
A: No—US participants are ineligible for rewards.
Q: How are rewards distributed if Aptos has no token yet?
A: Rewards will be paid post-mainnet launch, likely in $APTOS.
Q: What’s the minimum hardware requirement for validators?
A: Details vary per AIT stage; check Aptos’ official guidelines.
Q: Are non-technical users eligible for rewards?
A: Yes—via Aptoverse ambassador programs (e.g., content creation).
Q: How does Aptos prevent DDoS attacks in AIT2?
A: Enhanced node checks and secret server address listings.