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Ethereum developers have recently made significant decisions regarding the upcoming Pectra update, prioritizing stability over speed. During the All-Core Developers call, the team opted for a new testnet, Hoodi, to replace the problematic Holesky, which has been hindered by a massive validator exit queue. This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring a stable environment for future developments.
Key Takeaways
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Ethereum developers have chosen Hoodi as the new testnet for the Pectra update.
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The decision to prioritize stability has delayed the mainnet rollout to mid-May.
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Core developers rejected a quicker option that could have introduced risks to the mainnet.
Background on the Update
The Ethereum network has been undergoing various updates to enhance its functionality and stability. The Pectra update is particularly crucial as it aims to improve exit-related features for validators. However, the previous testnet, Holesky, faced significant challenges, including a validator exit queue exceeding one million, which could take over a year to resolve.
Options Considered
During the recent developers' meeting, four options were on the table:
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Launch a new testnet (Hoodi) - This was the chosen option.
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Use DevNet 6 as a temporary testnet - Considered but not selected.
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Spin up a short-term shadow fork of Holesky - Not favored due to potential risks.
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Implement a hard fork to clear Holesky’s exit queue - This option was rejected due to concerns about stability.
Reasons for Choosing Stability
The decision to go with Hoodi was influenced by several factors:
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Risk of Hard Forks: Core developers expressed concerns that modifying Holesky could introduce unforeseen risks, potentially destabilizing the mainnet.
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Development Delays: Any debugging required for Holesky could lead to significant delays in the overall development timeline, particularly for the Fusaka update.
Implications of the Decision
The choice to prioritize stability means that the Pectra mainnet fork is now officially delayed until mid-May. The Hoodi testnet is set to go live on March 17, with Pectra activation scheduled for March 26. This timeline allows developers to refine their code and ensure compatibility with the upcoming Fusaka update.
Future Steps
As the development progresses, the deadline for submitting Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) for Fusaka is now set for March 24. Core teams will review these proposals and provide feedback by March 31, leading to a final decision on the scope of the update by early April.
Conclusion
The Ethereum development community's decision to prioritize stability over speed reflects a cautious approach to network upgrades. By opting for a new testnet and delaying the mainnet rollout, developers aim to ensure a robust and reliable environment for all users, particularly those involved in staking. As the ecosystem continues to evolve, these decisions will play a critical role in shaping the future of Ethereum.
Sources
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Ethereum core developers choose stability over speed, Blockworks.