Cardano Unveils Node 9.0: A Major Step Towards the Chang Hard Fork

Key Takeaways:

• Node 9.0 Release: Cardano has launched the latest version of its validator node software, Node 9.0, marking a significant step towards the upcoming Chang hard fork. This release allows the network to support the hard fork boundary on both mainnet and long-running testnets.
• Chang Hard Fork: The Chang hard fork, which begins the “Age of Voltaire” in Cardano’s roadmap, aims to fully decentralize Cardano’s governance. This will involve the introduction of Delegate Representatives (DReps) who will be elected by ADA tokenholders to draft and govern according to the Cardano Constitution.
• Node Upgrade Requirements: For the hard fork to proceed, 70% of Cardano nodes need to upgrade to the new Node 9.0 software. This upgrade is crucial for enabling the decentralized governance features outlined in Cardano Improvement Proposal 1694 (CIP 1694).
• Governance Features: While Node 9.0 sets the stage for the hard fork, it does not yet enable full DRep voting and governance actions. These features are planned for a future release, specifically in version 10.0.
• Security and Preparations: The release follows a previous node upgrade in June, implemented after an attempted attack on the network. Currently, exchanges and stake pools are still preparing for the hard fork, with the process expected to begin soon.

The Cardano blockchain network is gearing up for a significant milestone with the release of “Node 9.0,” the latest version of its validator node software. This update, announced on July 8, is a crucial step towards implementing the much-anticipated Chang hard fork. The release was detailed in a YouTube video by Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson, who outlined its importance and the next steps for the network.

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Key Features of Node 9.0

Released at approximately 7 pm UTC, Node 9.0 is designed to support the Chang hard fork across both the mainnet and long-running testnets such as PreProd. According to the release notes on GitHub, this version is the first node capable of facilitating the transition through the Chang boundary.

Source: github

Hoskinson emphasized the significance of this update in a YouTube video posted on July 7. He mentioned that the software release was imminent and that a signal for mass upgrades would likely come by “Monday or Tuesday.” For the hard fork to proceed, 70% of nodes must vote to upgrade to Node 9.0, highlighting the collaborative nature of this transition.

The Cardano Chang Hard Fork: A Step Towards Decentralized Governance

The Chang hard fork represents a pivotal shift in Cardano’s governance model, marking the beginning of the “Age of Voltaire” on the Cardano roadmap. This phase introduces decentralized governance mechanisms, empowering the community to take a more active role in the network’s future.

Central to this transformation is Cardano Improvement Proposal 1694 (CIP 1694), which outlines the creation of Delegate Representatives (DReps). These representatives, elected by ADA tokenholders, will draft a Cardano Constitution to serve as the supreme governing law of the network. Once established, DReps will propose and implement changes in alignment with this constitution, fostering a more democratic and transparent governance structure.

Current Status and Next Steps

While Node 9.0 sets the stage for the Chang hard fork, it does not yet enable DRep voting and all governance actions. Full voting capabilities will be introduced in version 10.0. Nonetheless, Node 9.0 supports entering the bootstrap phase of CIP-1694, preparing the network for the forthcoming governance changes.

Source: Cardanoscan.io

As of now, block explorer Cardanoscan indicates that exchanges and stake pools have not fully prepared for the hard fork. However, Hoskinson has expressed optimism that the process will begin on “Monday or Tuesday,” suggesting a start date of July 8-9. This timeline marks a slight delay from the initial expectation of a June implementation, which was postponed following a network upgrade on June 26 aimed at thwarting a distributed denial-of-service attack.

Implications for the Cardano Ecosystem

The release of Node 9.0 and the impending Chang hard fork are significant developments for the Cardano ecosystem. By advancing towards decentralized governance, Cardano aims to enhance its resilience, security, and community engagement. This shift aligns with broader trends in the blockchain industry, where decentralized governance is increasingly seen as a critical factor for long-term sustainability and success.

Source: CoinTelegraph