Cardano Unlocks a New Era with Node 9.0.0 : Signals Chang Hard Fork
July 12, 2024

TL;DR: Cardano's Node 9.0.0 sets the stage for the upcoming Chang hard fork, empowering users with on-chain governance and Plutus script enhancements, marking a significant leap towards decentralized blockchain governance.

Cardano, a leading blockchain platform known for its emphasis on sustainability and decentralized governance, has reached a pivotal moment with the release of Node 9.0.0 on July 8th. This update marks a crucial step towards the network's evolution into a fully self-governing blockchain ecosystem.
Charles Hoskinson, the visionary founder of Cardano, hailed the Node 9.0.0 release as a "game changer".
He emphasized its significance in laying the groundwork for what he envisions as “Node 9.0.0 basically means Cardano has the best, the most decentralized and I hope the most effective decentralized government in the entire cryptocurrency industry.”
However, Hoskinson urged Stake Pool Operators to conduct thorough testing of the update before proceeding with the upcoming Chang hard fork.
Chang Hard Fork
The Chang hard fork signifies the culmination of years of development focused on decentralizing Cardano. With this update, the Cardano Foundation, EMURGO, and Input-Output Global (IOG) will hand over control, handing the reins over to the community. This paves the way for a more democratic blockchain governed by its users.
Key Features of the Chang Era:
- On-chain Governance
Proposal CIP-1694 introduces a robust on-chain voting system, enabling ADA token holders to directly participate in shaping the network's future evolution.
- Plutus Script Support
Enhanced with Plutus V1 reference scripts and improved signing capabilities (SIP 69), Cardano strengthens its foundation for smart contract development, crucial for expanding its utility and ecosystem.
- Delegate Representatives (DReps)
ADA holders will elect DReps tasked with drafting a Cardano Constitution, establishing fundamental rules for governance. Once approved, DReps will propose amendments aligned with this constitution, ensuring adherence to community-driven principles.

What does this mean for Cardano's future?
The Chang hard fork holds immense potential for Cardano. By placing governance in the hands of the community, Cardano fosters a more collaborative and adaptable environment. This shift is expected to attract developers and users seeking a truly decentralized blockchain platform.
Further Reading:
- Layer Zero: The Foundation of Blockchain Technology
- Layer 1 Blockchain: The Core of Blockchain Technology
- Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS): How Do They Work?
Disclaimer:The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as trading advice. MaskEX.com bears no responsibility for any investments made based on the information provided on this page. We highly advise conducting independent research and/or seeking guidance from a qualified professional before making any investment decisions.

MaskEX Academy Team