Starting the BitBoxApp in Testnet

To use the BitBoxApp in Testnet, it always has to be restarted first, or in other words: You cannot switch networks while the BitBoxApp is running, which helps to avoid confusion between the two. While your BitBox02 itself does not require any setting changes whatsoever, the BitBoxApp needs to be passed the -testnet argument, which can be done with a simple command on the command line.

On Linux and macOS

Make sure the BitBoxApp is closed before running the following command in a Terminal:

open -a BitBox.app --args -testnet

The BitBoxApp will start, and you can connect and unlock your BitBox02 as usual.

On Windows

Locate the BitBox application folder on your local disk, it will likely be in the Program Files directory. Open a command prompt (e.g. by searching “cmd” in the search bar), enter the path of the BitBox.exe executable and append the mentioned -testnet argument. Your final command will look something like this:

“C:\Program Files\BitBox\BitBox.exe” -testnet

If you have trouble entering the path manually, you can simply drag and drop the executable on the command prompt window – the correct path will then be entered automatically.

For a more permanent solution, you might want to add a shortcut for the BitBoxApp to start in Testnet right away. Create one by right-clicking on the executable, selecting View more options and Create Shortcut. You can now move this new shortcut wherever you like, e.g. on your Desktop, for quick and easy access. Now, right-click the shortcut you just created, click on Properties and add the -testnet argument in the Target field as shown in the image below. Apply the changes and you’re all set. Whenever you click this shortcut, the BitBoxApp will start in Testnet.

Using Testnet

The BitBoxApp will look very familiar in Testnet, though notice your accounts now include the name “Testnet” by default and coins are denominated in TBTC or tsat. Receiving and sending transactions with your BitBox02 is just as easy as in Mainnet.

You might notice how receive addresses and account information look slightly different than you may be familiar with. This is correct behaviour, as Testnet accounts use different address versions and even different private keys, which are solely reserved for usage in Testnet. Even though these coins are not worth anything, your BitBox02 still keeps them secure, as you would expect.

In the example wallet below, you can see a few in- and outgoing Testnet transactions, just like you would see them on Bitcoin Mainnet. Don’t get too excited about the value displayed in FIAT-currency though, as the BitBoxApp keeps using the current Bitcoin exchange rate for Testnet coins as well.

Where can I get Testnet coins?

Testnet coins can be withdrawn for free at faucets such as this one. There are several options out there, and they usually enforce a withdrawal limit, so you might have to be patient!

For testing the functionality of your BitBox02, it doesn’t really matter how many Testnet coins you have, but if acquiring coins at faucets is too slow for you, try hitting up an experienced Bitcoiner on social media or community forums – if they own any TBTC, they will likely be willing to send you some. Just like real Bitcoin, Testnet coins are limited in supply, so you might want to send them back once you’re done.

Third party wallets

To use your BitBox02 in Testnet with other wallet software such as Specter Desktop or Sparrow Wallet, no configuration changes have to be made to your BitBox02.