Ink Testnet Overview: Key Resources on the Path to Mainnet Goals

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The world of blockchain innovation continues to evolve, and Layer 2 (L2) solutions are at the forefront of this transformation. Designed to enhance scalability, reduce transaction costs, and maintain Ethereum’s robust security, L2 networks are becoming essential infrastructure for the next generation of decentralized applications (dApps). Among these emerging platforms, Ink stands out as a promising OP Stack-based Layer 2 blockchain built with security, accessibility, and developer empowerment in mind.

Backed by the trusted foundation of Kraken’s decade-long commitment to crypto safety, Ink offers developers a reliable environment to build and test dApps before mainnet launch. The journey begins with the Ink testnet, a fully functional sandbox that mirrors the future mainnet experience—complete with tools, bridges, and explorers necessary for seamless development.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Ink testnet, including setup instructions, key resources, and how to get started deploying your projects today.

Understanding the Ink Testnet

A testnet is a parallel blockchain used for testing purposes, allowing developers to experiment without risking real funds. The Ink testnet operates on Sepolia, Ethereum’s primary proof-of-stake test network supported by the Ethereum Foundation. This ensures compatibility with Ethereum tooling while providing a secure space to debug and refine smart contracts and dApps.

Built using the OP Stack, Ink inherits battle-tested architecture from Optimism, ensuring high compatibility with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-based tools and wallets. The testnet replicates the intended functionality of the future Ink mainnet, featuring:

Whether you're building DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, or Web3 gaming experiences, the Ink testnet provides the infrastructure needed to innovate safely and efficiently.

👉 Discover powerful tools to accelerate your blockchain development journey.

Getting Started: Essential Setup Guides

To begin building on Ink, you’ll need to configure your wallet and acquire testnet tokens. Below are step-by-step instructions for integrating Ink into two popular wallet environments.

How to View the Ink Testnet in Kraken Wallet

Kraken Wallet natively supports multi-chain access, including full integration with the Ink testnet. Follow these steps to enable it:

  1. Update your Kraken Wallet app to the latest version from your device’s app store.
  2. Log in and navigate to the Assets tab.
  3. Tap Manage, then search for “Ethereum – Sepolia Testnet.”
  4. Look for the Ink logo next to the network name to confirm accuracy.
  5. Enable the network and return to your home screen.

You’ll now see Ethereum – Sepolia Testnet listed among your assets. No additional settings are required—your wallet is ready to interact with the Ink testnet.

How to Add the Ink Testnet to MetaMask

MetaMask users can easily integrate the Ink testnet by manually adding network details:

  1. Open MetaMask and go to Networks > Add Network.

  2. Select Custom RPC and enter the following:

    • Network Name: Ink Sepolia
    • RPC URL: https://rpc-gel-sepolia.inkonchain.com
    • Chain ID: 763373
    • Currency Symbol: ETH
    • Block Explorer URL: https://explorer-sepolia.inkonchain.com
  3. Click Add, then confirm the new network.

Once added, you can switch between Ethereum and Ink seamlessly within MetaMask.

Bridging Sepolia ETH to the Ink Testnet

To deploy or interact with contracts on Ink, you'll need testnet ETH. Here’s how to bridge Sepolia ETH to the Ink L2 network:

  1. Obtain Sepolia ETH from a public faucet such as the Alchemy Sepolia Faucet or Infura’s faucet.
  2. Send the received Sepolia ETH to the L1StandardBridge contract address:
    0xC0d337f71aD19a8f17a1b297cDb3a86c5EEf9Eec
  3. Wait briefly—the Ink op-node automatically detects L1 transactions and processes them onto L2.
  4. Check your balance via the Ink block explorer to confirm receipt.

This trust-minimized bridging mechanism ensures secure asset transfers between Ethereum Sepolia and Ink, simulating real-world cross-layer interactions.

👉 Access advanced blockchain tools to streamline your development workflow.

Key Developer Resources

To support robust development, Ink provides a suite of essential technical resources:

Contract Addresses

Block Explorer

Explore transactions, contracts, and blocks in real time using the official block explorer:
🔗 https://explorer-sepolia.inkonchain.com

RPC Endpoints

Use stable endpoints for dApp connectivity:

These resources are critical for debugging, monitoring, and deploying production-ready code in a controlled environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the purpose of the Ink testnet?
A: The Ink testnet allows developers to test dApps, smart contracts, and integrations in a safe environment that mirrors the upcoming mainnet, using no real funds.

Q: Is Ink an Ethereum Layer 2 solution?
A: Yes. Ink is an OP Stack-based Layer 2 blockchain designed to scale Ethereum by processing transactions off-chain while inheriting Ethereum’s security.

Q: Do I need special tools to develop on Ink?
A: No. Since Ink is EVM-compatible and OP Stack-based, standard Ethereum development tools like Hardhat, Foundry, Truffle, and Remix work seamlessly.

Q: How do I get help if I encounter issues?
A: Join the official community channels (X/Twitter and Telegram) for announcements and support. A dedicated Discord server for builders is also coming soon.

Q: Can I use existing ETH wallets with Ink?
A: Absolutely. Wallets like MetaMask and Kraken Wallet support Ink through custom network configuration or native integration.

Q: Will testnet activity carry over to mainnet?
A: No. Testnet usage is for development only; all data resets when transitioning to mainnet.

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Building the Future of Finance

Ink represents more than just another Layer 2—it's a vision for secure, accessible, and developer-first blockchain innovation. Inspired by Kraken’s unwavering focus on safety and reliability, Ink aims to lower barriers for builders entering the Web3 space.

By offering a fully equipped testnet environment today, Ink empowers developers to experiment, iterate, and prepare for a future where decentralized applications drive financial inclusion and innovation.

Stay updated by following official channels for news on mainnet milestones, grants, hackathons, and community events tailored for onchain creators.

👉 Explore next-gen blockchain platforms designed for scalable DeFi innovation.