To facilitate testing and development without involving real funds, Bitcoin has designated test networks with their own distinct addresses and coins.
When starting out with Bitcoin it is strongly advised to use a test network to gain familiarity
The three commonly used test networks for Bitcoin are:
- Testnet: The Bitcoin Testnet is a separate blockchain that operates similarly to the main Bitcoin network but with its own set of test coins. Testnet addresses usually start with “m” or “n”. For example, a Testnet address could look like this: “mipcBbFg9gMiCh81Kj8tqqdgoZub1ZJRfn”.
- Signet -Latest option that is similar to testnet. Documentation now semd to prefer use of signet over testnet.
- Regtest: Regtest (Regression Test) is a local testing mode that allows developers to create their own private blockchain and mine blocks instantly. It is useful for quick and isolated testing. Regtest addresses usually start with “2” or “m”. For example, a Regtest address could look like this: “2N9p6M4cZM5F7GJKY3EMx3VKavLwYy3UwLh”.
Testnet, Signet and Regtest addresses are meant for testing purposes only and have no value on the main Bitcoin network.
It’s important to note that if you’re using these test networks, the addresses and coins associated with them should not be used in real transactions or with real Bitcoin wallets. They are isolated environments solely for testing and development purposes.
Note: Test networks use the same bitcoin core software that is used on the main Bitcoin networ. See an Introduction to Bitcoin Core
Testnet
This is very similar to the real Bitcoin network and before you can start using it the testnet blockchain must first be downloaded.
The problem I find with this network is that it doesn’t allow you to mine bitcoin as the machine you will likely use will lack the power to complete with other miners.
So in order to get Bitcoins to use you will be dependent on Bitcoin faucets which allow you to request bitcoin.
Testnet uses port is 18333 (instead of 8333)
Default RPC connection port is 18332 (instead of 8332)
See Setting Up a Testnet test network
Signet
This is very similar to the real Bitcoin testnet network .Here is what the wiki says
Signet (BIP 0325) is a new test network for Bitcoin which adds an additional signature requirement to block validation. Signet is similar in nature to testnet, but more reliable and centrally controlled. There is a default signet network (“Signet Global Test Net VI” as of this writing), but anyone can run their own signet network at their whim.
The problem I find with this network is that it doesn’t allow you to mine bitcoin as the machine you will likely use will lack the power to complete with other miners.
To get Bitcoins to use a Bitcoin faucets for signet which allow you to request bitcoin.
There is also a command line tool for signet that lets you get bitcoin. See Wiki
Signet uses port is 38333 (instead of 8333)
Default RPC connection port is 38332 (instead of 8332)
See Setting Up a Signet test network
Regtest
This is my preferred test network as it allows you to test bitcoin including bitcoin mining using low power PCs/laptops.
Because you can simply mine your own Bitcoin there is no need to use faucets.
Regtest uses port is 18444(instead of 8333)
Default RPC connection port is 18443 (instead of 8332)
See How to Set Up a Bitcoin Regtest Test Network
Terms Used in the Tutorial
Faucet – These are common on test networks and are websites that give away test coins. There is no need to pay for these coins.
Ports– Bitcoin uses 2 ports. One port is used to communicate with other peers and the other port is used for RPC commands if enabled.
Resources and related tutorials