The Holesky testnet is an Ethereum-based test network, designed to simulate real-world blockchain environments in a low-risk environment. Holesky provides a testing ground for technologies like proof-of-stake consensus mechanisms and Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, helping researchers fine-tune decentralized applications before launching them on the mainnet.

Our node runs on Besu and Teku, two cutting-edge blockchain clients.

• Besu is an open-source Ethereum client designed for enterprise use. With its focus on performance and flexibility, Besu allows us to interact seamlessly with both permissioned and public blockchain networks. This powerful tool ensures that our node can process transactions, execute smart contracts, and validate blocks in a stable, secure environment.
• Teku is an Ethereum client specifically designed for the proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, making it essential for participating in Ethereum’s transition toward a more scalable and sustainable network.

Together, Besu and Teku provide a robust infrastructure for our node, allowing us to stay at the cutting edge of blockchain technology. This hands-on work not only gives us practical insights into network performance but also prepares our students to tackle real-world blockchain challenges.

In blockchain, "graffiti" refers to a small customizable field within a block that allows the validator to leave a message or tag. It’s a way for validators to personalize the blocks they validate. In our case, we used the graffiti field to write "Study Web3@Howest" in the block we validated on the Holesky testnet. This serves as a fun way to mark our participation and remind the blockchain community of our hands-on approach to Web3 learning and research.