Development Networks
Development networks run locally on your machine, giving you full control over blockchain state, network parameters, and block production without internet dependency or testnet tokens.
Choosing a development network
| Feature | Yaci DevKit | cardano-testnet |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Docker Compose or NPM | Build from source |
| Includes | Indexer, viewer, Ogmios, Kupo, Blockfrost API | Minimal tooling, full customization |
| Use Case | Integration testing, SDK development | Protocol testing, custom scenarios |
Yaci DevKit
Quick-start development environment with built-in indexer, transaction viewer, and Provider API compatibility.
Use Yaci DevKit to:
- Get started quickly with Docker Compose
- Test integrations requiring Blockfrost API compatibility
- Access blockchain data through lightweight indexer
- Develop with Ogmios and Kupo integration
- Run in CI/CD pipelines (NPM package)
Learn more: Yaci DevKit guide
cardano-testnet
Lightweight local cluster from cardano-node with full customization over genesis files and network parameters.
Use cardano-testnet to:
- Customize genesis files and on-chain parameters
- Test protocol-level behavior
- Create specific network scenarios
- Match mainnet parameters exactly
- Control epoch length, slot timing, and stake distribution
Learn more: cardano-testnet guide
When to use development networks
Development networks are ideal when you need:
- Fast iteration without waiting for testnet block confirmations
- Deterministic blockchain state for testing
- Offline development without internet dependency
- Custom network parameters or genesis configuration
- Automated testing in CI/CD pipelines
Once your application is stable, move to public testnets for production-like testing before mainnet deployment.
Next steps
- Quick start: Set up Yaci DevKit with Docker Compose
- Advanced setup: Build cardano-testnet for custom configurations
- Test on public networks: Use testnets for pre-production validation