Advancing PoW Efficiency with Rust

Setting New Standards

On January 7th, 8 PM UTC, a significant moment for Kaspa will unfold as Testnet 11 (TN 11) launches its second phase. This release marks another exploration into the innovative Rust codebase, pushing the limits with an unprecedented 10 blocks per second (BPS) on a proof-of-work (PoW) network. Developers and crypto-enthusiasts will converge to test the PHANTOM GHOSTDAG protocol, bringing it to life through Rust.

More than just a test space, Testnet 11 is a dynamic simulation environment. It serves as an accelerated microcosm of an entire digital ecosystem, processing a vast number of transactions eager for instant settlement. The protocol faces intense testing and optimization, simulating real-world conditions to ensure utmost efficiency and security.

Embracing Rust in Kaspa

Migrating Kaspa’s programming language from Go to Rust is a strategic move to boost performance and handle the complex BlockDAG structure. This switch paves the way for reaching 10 BPS, offering enhanced scalability and transaction throughput potentially up to 3,000 TPS. Rust boasts benefits like superior performance, memory safety, and a supportive crypto community.

Latest Enhancements in Testnet 11

Since its initial launch, Testnet 11 has incorporated several improvements to optimize network performance. Key updates include enhanced high BPS Peer-to-Peer (P2P) communication and storage efficiency, along with smarter caching and parallel block processing, solidifying Kaspa’s innovative edge.

Joining Testnet 11

Engaging with Testnet 11 is simple. The core requirement is the Rusty Kaspa software, which integrates your system with the network. CPU mining is the exclusive mining method for TN 11, offering simplicity and accessibility to all users. While transaction simulation is optional, CPU mining remains central to contributing computational power to the network.

For optimal performance, a system with at least 16GB of RAM, an 8-core CPU, and a 128GB SSD is recommended.

Testnet 11 Instructions

Need help or want to share feedback?

For assistance and discussions, join the Kaspa Discord #testnet channel or check out #rust-rewrite for insights on Rusty Kaspa’s development.

Elevating PoW Consensus Standards

The performance of Testnet 11 is instrumental in shaping Kaspa’s trajectory, especially the migration to 10 BPS speeds on the mainnet. These tests are key in identifying optimizations for a future powered by Rustlang.

To dive deeper into the Rust rewrite and Testnet 11 participation, visit the Rusty Kaspa GitHub page. Remember, TN 11 is experimental and may experience some instability as part of the development process.

The deployment of Testnet 11 marks a noteworthy leap in crypto innovation, creating a platform for rigorous testing and strengthening Kaspa’s PHANTOM GHOSTDAG protocol foundation. It’s a decisive step towards achieving even faster speeds of 100 BPS.

Note: Testnet 11 is a test environment, so expect potential instability and downtime as part of ongoing experiments — it’s all part of the process.

Release Notes Summary

Testnet 11 Enhancements

The latest updates focus on refining P2P communication at high BPS, improving storage efficiency to handle increased data loads, and optimizing caching mechanisms. Other changes include parallel block processing and various fixes from initial testing insights.

Additional Updates for Rusty Kaspa

Improvements also encompass node initialization for better overall health and functionality, a wallet and metrics overhaul providing a solid base for the new KNG wallet, and UPnP enhancements for