Run a node and interact with the Polkadot testnet
If you'd like to play with Polkadot, you'll need to install and run the Parity Polkadot client.
Get the client at Parity’s Polkadot repo
Westend is the current testnet for Polkadot. By default, any node running on the Westend testnet will appear on telemetry.polkadot.io
For details on Westend and other networks in the Polkadot ecosystem, see the Polkadot Wiki
The testnet allows you to create accounts, propose governance referenda, stake testnet DOT to become a validator or nominate other accounts as validators with your testnet DOT.
Connect your running node to the main Polkadot user interface to play around.
Get testnet DOT to stake by following these instructions on the Polkadot Wiki
If you don’t want to run a node, you can still interact with the network by using the explorer
Before interacting with the testnet, please read this legal notice