Definition
Mainnet is the primary, live blockchain network where real assets and value are recorded and transferred. It is the production environment of a blockchain, where blocks are added to the official ledger and transactions are considered final. Activity on a mainnet typically involves actual cryptocurrencies or tokens, and changes made there are permanent and publicly visible.
In Simple Terms
Mainnet is the “real” version of a blockchain where actual coins and tokens move around. When something happens on mainnet, it affects real balances and cannot be undone. It is the main public network that people rely on for recording and tracking genuine blockchain activity.
Context and Usage
The term mainnet is commonly used when distinguishing between live blockchain activity and activity on separate networks used for testing or development. It appears in discussions about deploying smart contracts, sending transactions, or interacting with blockchain applications in a production setting. References to mainnet often highlight that actions involve real value and the official state of the blockchain.