Original archived Re: Testnet Tips for Using Bitcoin Without Risk
Scraped on 19/08/2025, 16:09:33 UTC
It's true it's initially created for developer, but i don't see anything wrong used for learning/testing purpose by non-developers assuming they follow well-written guide or have someone guide them directly. Besides, I've seen other thread where they claim they use testnet to teach people how to use Bitcoin.
Supervised learning is an entirely different matter and new users should never be encouraged to use any testnet without proper guidance. Most people have a limited learning capability. Using this up by teaching them about testnet addresses, coins and networks in general is a waste. If they end up getting hacked or losing their funds on mainnet shortly afterward, what was the point? It is better to spend this capacity to educate them on safely using Bitcoin.
I was thinking something more practical (e.g. create new wallet, make backup, create transaction and restore wallet from backup) rather than theory aspect. I also agree about teaching safety of using Bitcoin, although it partially covered by common digital literacy.
I agree with you, I am sorry I was replying to a combination of your posts and from other people at the same time. Many people were rushing to support people playing around with testnet coins first when it is not the recommended practice. Very few users of Bitcoin have started their journey this way. I have never heard of one or met one online that started with the testnet.
Not to mention the fact that introducing fake Bitcoin coins with zero value to people who see Bitcoin as fake money is quite misleading. Teaching them with worthless testnet coins can reinforce skepticism and incite confusion.
It is clear to you and me what is Bitcoin and the difference between networks. Do you really believe it is smart to introduce to people who can't even grasp 1% of the existence of the magic internet money its testnet, a valueless copy of Bitcoin?
At very least, i don't think it's wrong approach
when it meets one of condition i mentioned earlier with
assumption they're patient enough to understand the well-written guide or guided by actual knowledge person.
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Yes.