The term used to describe a blockchain network or protocol that is fully operational.

Mainnet is a crypto-related term for blockchain networks, projects, platforms and protocols that have already started operations. This is not the kind of network that is still being developed or still sending out invitations for investments. Rather, mainnets are defined by the fact that the platform is fully operational, traders and miners are active on the network, and transactions are ongoing, all of which are being recorded on the blockchain.

In a way, mainnets are the desired destinations of testnets. Testnets are simply working samples still subject to rigorous testing by the developers and community alike until a fully working model is released. Some blockchain platforms (e.g. Solana) are already mostly functional at testnet while others (e.g. Radix) only add critical functionalities such as smart contracts at the mainnet stage.

What follows when a crypto platform, protocol or project is fully operational and migrates to a different blockchain.

A mainnet swap is the mass movement of traders from one blockchain network to another due to the maturing of their crypto protocol. This usually occurs when the protocol is fully functional and a native blockchain network has been formulated that can now accommodate the protocol and its users. Thus, the swap consists of users replacing their cryptos (from the old network) with newly-issued alternatives using a predetermined ratio.

Mainnet swaps are not unusual. Few crypto projects are launched with a new blockchain network. The development team typically relies on others until they can develop their native network for their users.

The process of becoming a public company by setting aside shares for the public through an exchange.

Listing is the process of a private business offering shares to the public via an exchange so that it can become a public company. This is a process native to corporate finance and characterized by the business’ compliance with Securities and Exchange Commissions (SECs) rules regarding public trading. Thus, after the commission has scrutinized the business’ many aspects, especially its management and ledgers, it approves its status as a public company, if it passes the scrutiny. Only then is the business said to be listed on an exchange.

Listing has a number of advantages. These include straightforward fundraising via shares sold to the public and the borrowing leverage. However, listed companies also face more scrutiny than unlisted companies and face a greater risk of being undervalued because of low liquidity.

In crypto, listing means that a token has been added to an exchange's basket of tradable assets. This involves creating a pool for the token and its pair where users can freely trade it.

Mainnet

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