Kusama is a public blockchain network built on the same codebase as Polkadot, which is designed to be an experimental and fast-moving cousin of the more established Polkadot network. Kusama is often referred to as a “canary network” because it is used to test new features and upgrades for Polkadot before they are implemented on the main network. In this article, we will explore the history and purpose of Kusama, and how it fits into the larger Polkadot ecosystem.
History of Kusama
Kusama was founded in 2019 by Gavin Wood, the same person who created Polkadot. The project was initially designed as a “pre-production” environment for Polkadot, where developers could test new features and upgrades before they were implemented on the main network. However, Kusama quickly evolved into its own independent blockchain network, with its own unique features and community.
One of the defining characteristics of Kusama is its “wild west” ethos. Unlike Polkadot, which has a more structured governance system, Kusama is designed to be more flexible and experimental. The network operates on a permissionless model, which means that anyone can participate in the network by staking KSM tokens. This allows for a more decentralized and open ecosystem, where developers can experiment with new ideas and projects.
Purpose of Kusama
Kusama serves several important functions within the larger Polkadot ecosystem. First and foremost, it is a testing ground for new features and upgrades that will eventually be implemented on the main network. This allows developers to experiment with new ideas and test them in a real-world environment before rolling them out on the larger network.
In addition to its role as a testing ground, Kusama is also designed to be a more experimental and fast-moving network. This means that developers can launch new projects and applications on Kusama without having to go through the more formal process of applying for a parachain slot on Polkadot. This allows for a more flexible and open ecosystem, where new projects can be launched quickly and easily.
Kusama is also designed to be a more community-driven network. Unlike Polkadot, which has a more structured governance system, Kusama is designed to be more decentralized and open. This means that anyone can participate in the network by staking KSM tokens, and that decisions about the direction of the network are made through a more democratic process.
KSM Token
KSM is the native token of the Kusama network. It is used to power the network and to participate in the governance process. Users can stake KSM tokens to validate transactions on the network and to participate in the governance process by voting on proposals.
KSM tokens can also be used to participate in the network’s auctions for parachain slots. Parachain slots are used to connect other blockchain networks to Kusama, allowing for interoperability between different blockchain networks. By staking KSM tokens, users can help to secure the network and participate in the process of selecting which parachains will be added to the network.
Conclusion
Kusama is an important part of the Polkadot ecosystem, serving as a testing ground for new features and upgrades before they are implemented on the main network. It is designed to be a more experimental and fast-moving network, with a more flexible and decentralized governance system. KSM tokens are used to power the network and participate in the governance process, as well as to participate in the network’s auctions for parachain slots. As the blockchain industry continues to grow and evolve, Kusama will likely play an increasingly important role in the development of new technologies and applications.
