Ethereum activates its latest testnet ahead of the Fusaka hard fork launch

The Ethereum network has activated the final testing phase of its anticipated hard fork called Fusaka, deployed this week on the Hoodi testnet and marking the step prior to the launch on the mainnet.

The developers confirmed that, if no critical failures arise, the update could be activated on the main network by December 3, 2025.

The Fusaka project groups around twelve protocol improvements (EIPs) focused on the security, scalability, and efficiency of Ethereum. Among them, the implementation of PeerDAS (Peer Data Availability Sampling) and the increase of the gas limit per block to optimize the operation of layer 2 roll-ups stand out.

Key technical improvements on the Fusaka route

The final test, conducted on the Hoodi testnet, represents a decisive step in the development of Fusaka, following previous stages in Holesky and Sepolia. This phase completes the testing cycle before the hard fork is incorporated into the mainnet.

According to publications from the technical director of Fusaka, one of the most significant improvements is that validators can now verify only samples of layer 2 data instead of downloading all the <<blobs>>, thanks to the integration of PeerDAS.

This feature reduces storage load and bandwidth consumption, bringing Ethereum closer to a more efficient model ready for the expansion of roll-ups.

In addition, Fusaka adjusts the maximum gas limit per transaction to prevent a single operation from monopolizing a block, increases the block gas limit, and improves node efficiency through a more rational use of resources.

Operational context and impact on Layer 2 ecosystems

These technical adjustments have direct implications for developers, node operators, and layer 2 networks. By reducing the data requirements for full nodes, access is expanded to new participants who were previously limited by hardware or infrastructure costs.

For roll-ups, the increase in data space and improvement in availability translate into lower fees and higher performance, strengthening Ethereum's competitive position against other platforms. This anticipates more robust support for the next generation of decentralized applications.

Strategic perspective and upcoming implementation schedule

With the activation of Fusaka on the Hoodi testnet, Ethereum transitions from the development stage to the final deployment phase.

If the mainnet update materializes on December 3 -as currently anticipated-, it will mean that the network maintains a high pace of innovation, considering that its last hard fork, Pectra, was implemented only six months ago.

From an institutional perspective, this roadmap confirms that Ethereum continues to focus on scalability and efficiency, which are essential pillars for its adoption by companies, decentralized finance platforms, and global applications.

However, the final execution will depend on the stability of the Hoodi testnet and the response of the clients -nodes, validators, and developers- to the new environment.

In summary, the Fusaka hard fork represents a significant technical advancement for Ethereum. Its success or eventual delay will directly influence the improvement timelines of the platform and its competitiveness within the global crypto infrastructure ecosystem.</blobs>