The Ethereum network has enjoyed enormous success since its creation in 2015. Developers are concocting a major update to optimize its performance, including "Dencun". Although this update was originally scheduled for late 2023, it may well be delayed by a few months or more.
Reasons for the delay in Dencun's development
Several factors are cited to justify this delay in the upgrade's progress. Firstly, the importance of testing prior to the launch of the mainnet was stressed by several members of the development team. Beiko, a member attending the meeting, said that it was necessary to carry out a series of tests on a test network ("testnet") before the Devconnect conference, scheduled for November 13-18.
- If these tests are not carried out before the aforementioned conference, it will be very difficult to launch the mainnet before the Christmas vacations, according to Beiko.
- Given the vacations and reduced availability during this period, the launch could be compromised if testing is delayed.
Although the developers did not provide Dencun with a specific date for its implementation, it would indeed be in place by the end of 2023. However, delays in the schedule combined with the need for rigorous testing have prompted project members to postpone this prospect.
Key milestones before Dencun's actual exit
To ensure a successful transition to the new version of the Ethereum network, several milestones are planned from September 2023. Parithosh Jayanthi, a member of the Ethereum Foundation, has indicated that the reboot of Holesky is scheduled for September 28 and should be ready for the Dencun tests before the conference already mentioned. So here's a rundown of the next steps:
- Restart of Holesky at the beginning of September: this will allow us to work upstream on the final optimizations before moving on to testnet.
- Implementation of tests on testnet before November: this will enable us to check the stability of the solution and, if necessary, correct certain points before the final launch.
- Devconnect conference (November 13-18): an opportunity to share test results and discuss a new deadline for the mainnet in the event of major delays.
Coping with time and organizational constraints
Faced with these challenges, the development team must adapt its planning accordingly. The importance of rigorous, in-depth testing is clearly emphasized by project members, who insist on the need for sufficient time to complete this crucial stage.
In short, the postponement of the launch of the Dencun upgrade until 2024 is mainly due to a combination of development delays and organizational constraints, particularly in connection with the Christmas vacations. Those interested in this upgrade will therefore have to wait a little longer before being able to benefit from the improvements promised by Ethereum.
