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Hardhat Network

1 min read
Pronunciation
[hard-hat net-wurk]
Analogy
Like a flight simulator for pilots, allowing developers to test smart contracts in a safe, controllable environment before going live.
Definition
A local Ethereum network emulator built into the Hardhat development framework, providing fast block mining, forking mainnet state, and advanced debugging features.
Key Points Intro
Hardhat Network accelerates smart contract development with local testing and debugging capabilities.
Key Points

Instant mining: Transactions are mined immediately without waiting.

Mainnet forking: Simulate mainnet state locally at a given block.

Console logs: `console.log()` support inside Solidity.

Stack traces: Detailed error traces for failed transactions.

Example
A developer forks Ethereum mainnet at block 17 000 000, tests a DeFi contract against real token balances, and debugs a revert using Hardhat’s stack trace.
Technical Deep Dive
Hardhat Network runs a Go‑Ethereum fork modified to support JSON‑RPC `hardhat_impersonateAccount`, `hardhat_setBalance`, and Solidity console logging. It records traces via EVM instrumentation.
Security Warning
Local forking may expose private keys if imported; never use production keys on Hardhat Network.
Caveat
Hardhat Network performance differs from real nodes; always test on public testnets before mainnet.
Related Terms
EVM

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