Reading time: ~ 2 m
As part of ongoing updates towards full decentralization, the Cardano network has unveiled a new test P2P network.
In a blog post, Cardano developer Input-Output Hong Kong (IOHK) noted that the new testnet is working with a small group of pool operators to test its functionality.
The company has announced that it has about 3,000 staking pools, which are operated by operators that run the distributed nodes, which in turn keep the network running. Staking pool operators will configure their nodes to interact directly with each other in anticipation of full integration.
The nodes require reliable communication with each other, which influenced the launch of P2P functionality. The work on decentralization led to the creation of the Ouruboros algorithm, which is now used on the Cardano blockchain.
Cardano said the P2P functionality is still undergoing testing and will not be fully integrated into the network. P2P capabilities will later be incorporated into the main Cardano network.
In addition, IOHK added that the current communication system between nodes on the Cardano blockchain depends on files that essentially describe the static configuration of the network.
Direct communication between P2P nodes simplifies the exchange of data between thousands of distributed nodes that will support the network without relying on aggregated repeaters. This will be done using automated P2P network components.
Automating the peer-to-peer node selection process brings us closer to a fully decentralized network and simplifies the process of starting a relay or node creating blocks, IOHK said..
The Cardano network has grown rapidly over the past months, with smart contract functionality being an important recent addition.
According to Finbold, as of December 8, the number of smart contracts based on the Cardano Plutus smart contract platform reached 888.
#Cardano #Launches #P2P #Testnet #Achieve #Decentralization
