Mainnet
The live, production version of a blockchain where real transactions with real value occur.
Mainnet is the "real" version of a blockchain, as opposed to testnets used for development. When you buy, send, or hold USDC, you're interacting with the mainnet of whichever blockchain you're using.
Every blockchain has a mainnet. Ethereum mainnet, Solana mainnet, Base mainnet are all the live networks where real USDC circulates and has real value. The term is used to distinguish from test environments where developers experiment with fake tokens.
As a regular user, you'll almost always be on mainnet. The only time you might encounter the distinction is if a wallet app accidentally connects to a testnet, or if you're trying a new app that hasn't launched on mainnet yet.
Related Terms
Testnet
A test version of a blockchain used by developers to experiment without risking real money.
Network (Blockchain Network)
A specific blockchain system where transactions are processed. When sending USDC, you must choose which network to use.
Blockchain
A distributed, immutable digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers.
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This definition is provided for educational purposes. USDC.org is an independent resource and is not affiliated with Circle Internet Financial.