The testnet is an experimental network used by cryptocurrency projects to test the system before its official launch. You can consider it a trial version of the original network, but without using real money.
Why do they conduct a testnet?
Bug discovery: To know if there are issues or vulnerabilities in the network.
Performance measurement: They check whether the network is strong and can handle a large number of users or not.
System improvement: After testing, they adjust and develop based on the results.
And what is the role of users?
The project invites members to try the network, either by using the wallet, executing transactions, or running nodes.
And in return?
Participants receive rewards (often in the project's currency) at the end of the testnet period, as a reward for their contribution to development.
Summary
The testnet is a crucial step for any serious project and provides an opportunity for users to participate in building the project from the beginning and receive rewards before the official network launch.