Using a Bitcoin wallet for the first time can feel intimidating. If you don't feel comfortable using your BitBox02 with real Bitcoin yet, or you simply want to experiment with transactions, the Bitcoin Testnet is a great option for you.
Testnet is an alternative network to the main Bitcoin network. It is primarily used by developers to test software, but it's also a fantastic learning tool for users. It works just like the real Bitcoin network, but its coins (called Testnet Bitcoin or TBTC) are worthless on purpose. This allows you to learn and practice without risking any real money.
How to enable Testnet mode in the BitBoxApp
You can't switch between the main network and Testnet while the BitBoxApp is running; a restart is always required. This helps avoid any confusion between practice and real funds. Your BitBox02 hardware wallet does not require any setting changes.
To start the BitBoxApp in Testnet mode:
- Open the BitBoxApp.
- Click on "Settings" in the bottom-left corner.
- Go to the "Advanced settings" tab.
4) Find the setting "Start testnet mode" and click on it.
- The app will now prompt you to restart. Close the BitBoxApp completely to apply the change.
- Note: Don't click cancel as this would cancel the process - close the app completely
- Re-open the BitBoxApp. A banner at the top will confirm you are in Testnet mode. It will say: "You are using Testnet mode. Transactions and coins here are not real and have no value. Only use for testing purposes."
Using your BitBox02 with Testnet
Once in Testnet mode, the BitBoxApp will look very familiar. Your accounts will have "Testnet" in their name, and balances will be shown in TBTC or tsats. Sending and receiving transactions works exactly the same as with real Bitcoin.
You might notice that your receive addresses look different, which is normal as Testnet uses different address formats. Even though the coins have no value, your BitBox02 keeps them just as secure as real Bitcoin.
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Just like with real Bitcoin, you can view your transactions on a Testnet block explorer (https://mempool.space/testnet). Please note that while the app may show a fiat currency value, this is only for illustration; Testnet coins have no actual monetary value.
Where can I get Testnet coins?
You can get free Testnet coins from websites called "faucets" (https://bitcoinfaucet.uo1.net/). These sites give away small amounts of TBTC for testing purposes. They usually have daily limits, so you might need to visit them more than once if you need more coins. Since the supply is limited, it is good practice to send any leftover coins back to a faucet when you are done.
Using Testnet with third-party wallets
To use your BitBox02 in Testnet with other wallet software such as Specter Desktop or Sparrow Wallet, no configuration changes have to be made to your BitBox02. You will need to enable Testnet mode within the settings of that specific wallet software.
FAQ
What is Bitcoin Testnet?
Testnet is a parallel Bitcoin network used for testing and learning. Its coins, TBTC, are intentionally worthless, so you can practice sending and receiving without any financial risk.
Do I need to change anything on my BitBox02 device for Testnet?
No. Your BitBox02 device requires no configuration changes. All the changes are made within the BitBoxApp software settings.
Are my Testnet coins safe?
Yes. Your BitBox02 secures your Testnet coins with the same high level of security it uses for real Bitcoin.
How do I get free coins to practice with on Testnet?
You can get free Testnet coins from special websites called "faucets," which are designed to distribute small amounts of TBTC for testing.