Status (October 2026): OP_NET is now live on Bitcoin mainnet. The project set the launch for March 19, 2026, and its X profile says it has no protocol token and that all fees are paid in BTC. No OP_NET token has launched and there is nothing to claim. We found no new season or rewards campaign on OP_NET’s X profile or GitHub, and its public testnet is still running. Sources: OP_NET on X, OP_NET node on GitHub.
Key Takeaways
- OP_NET is a Layer-1 metaprotocol that enables smart contract functionality directly on Bitcoin’s blockchain, supporting DeFi, tokens, NFTs, and DAOs using native Bitcoin ($BTC) as the gas token, without requiring Bitcoin Improvement Proposals (BIPs).
- It utilizes Taproot, SegWit, and Legacy technologies for smart contract execution on UTXO-based blockchains, with development in Wasm-compatible languages like Rust or AssemblyScript for fast deployment.
- It opened a public testnet in April 2025 for testing features like swaps and staking, then launched on Bitcoin mainnet in March 2026. It employs a proof-of-authority (PoA) consensus mechanism for specific functions, such as validating asset bridging.
Disclaimer: Crypto airdrops are promotional events where tokens are distributed to existing holders of a cryptocurrency or to individuals who meet certain criteria. While airdrops can be a way to acquire tokens at no cost, they also involve risks. There’s no guarantee that the airdropped tokens will increase in value, and there may be associated fees or requirements. Additionally, airdrops can be susceptible to scams and phishing attempts. Always exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any airdrop opportunity before participating.
What Is OP_NET?
OP_NET is a Bitcoin Layer-1 metaprotocol that enables smart contract functionality directly on Bitcoin’s blockchain without requiring Bitcoin Improvement Proposals (BIPs).
It supports decentralized finance (DeFi), tokens, NFTs, DAOs, and other applications, using native Bitcoin as its “gas token” instead of a separate token.
Notably, OP_NET leverages Taproot, SegWit, and Legacy technologies to manage and execute smart contracts on Bitcoin or other UTXO-based blockchains. Developers can code in Wasm-compatible languages, such as Rust or AssemblyScript, for rapid deployment.
How Did Users Join the OP_NET Testnet?
OP_NET went live on Bitcoin testnet on April 29, 2025, for experimenting with features such as swaps and staking. It utilizes a proof-of-authority (PoA) consensus for specific functions, including validating asset bridging.
In 2025, users joined the testnet with these steps:
👉 STEP 1: Head over to https://opnet.org/ and click “Download Wallet.” If opnet.org does not load, OP_WALLET builds are also published on OP_NET’s GitHub.
👉 STEP 2: Add the wallet to your browser.
👉 STEP 3: Create your wallet.
👉 STEP 4: Engage and claim on faucets every day.
👉 STEP 5: Keep an eye on official announcements.
OP_NET now says it has no protocol token, so testing the network does not qualify you for an OP_NET token. Follow @opnetbtc on X for official news and treat any site offering an OP_NET token claim as a scam. OP_NET’s GitHub and Linktree still link the Telegram handle t.me/opnetbtc, which now shows a username-for-sale notice, so don’t use it for news.
