Pi Network Mainnet Upgrade Deadline Sparks 40% Rally

This article was first published on The Bit Journal.

Pi Network Mainnet is entering a critical upgrade phase as the development team requires all Mainnet node operators to update to version 19.9 before March 1. Nodes that cannot complete the update will be disconnected from the network.

The news comes as Pi Coin is registering impressive weekly increases, which has sparked interest in the ecosystem. The upgrade, according to the team, is aimed at making the network more secure, more decentralized and better overall.

For all Mainnet nodes, v19.9 is a compulsory update. The deadline for compliance is March 1. 

Pi Network Mainnet Enforces KYC for Node Operators

Node and SuperNode operators must also complete KYC verification to remain eligible. A structured three-stage Testnet process is underway to assess stability. Meanwhile, Pi Coin has gained nearly 40% over the past week.

Pi Network Mainnet operates through distributed nodes that validate transactions and maintain blockchain records. These nodes run on personal computers rather than energy-intensive mining machines. 

The network uses the Stellar Consensus Protocol, which relies on trusted groups of nodes agreeing on transactions. Mobile users form security circles that contribute to a broader trust network. This trust graph helps determine which transactions are confirmed. 

Mandatory Software Update

The development team stated that version 19.9 needs to be installed by all node operators before March 1. The software supports Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. Node operators are advised to update the software early to ensure smooth operation.

A node not updated on time will lose connection to the Pi Network Mainnet. The team stated that this is done to prevent compatibility problems and reduce risks during transaction validation.

How Nodes and SuperNodes Operate

In trusted clusters, nodes validate transactions and ensure data complies with consensus rules. SuperNodes have extra duties to support wider network synchronization and inter-regional transaction continuity.

KYC is required for participants to be a Node or SuperNode. Having identity checks increases trust and decreases misuse, the team said. The Pi Network Mainnet relies on trusted operators for the integrity of the system and stability in mining.

Three-Stage Testnet Evaluation

The Testnet process is divided into three phases designed to evaluate readiness. The first stage, called the Selection Stage, checks hardware performance and internet reliability of applicants seeking to run nodes.

The second stage, known as the Revision Stage, involves stress testing. The team simulates sudden node dropouts and network isolation events to evaluate consensus resilience. 

The final stage introduces live Testnet activity with real transactions recorded on the blockchain. Data collected during this stage will guide reward decisions and future upgrades.

User Accessibility and Open-Source Plans

The team stated that the node software is designed for ease of use. Users can switch node functions on or off depending on device availability. Resource usage remains limited unless full blockchain features are activated.

Developers also confirmed plans to make the blockchain component open-source in the future. This move is intended to improve transparency and allow community contributions. Rewards for node participation will be determined using Testnet performance data.

Market Reaction to the Upgrade

Pi Coin has responded positively to the upgrade announcement. The token rose 5% within 24 hours, moving from $0.161 to $0.172 before stabilizing near $0.171. Over the past seven days, the token has gained close to 40%.

Daily trading volume increased by 7.94% to approximately $16.7 million. Market capitalization stands near $1.58 billion. Despite the recent rally, the token remains down about 89% from its October 2025 high of $0.29.

Technical Indicators Show Neutral Trend

Overall market indicators are showing a balance of momentum. The Relative Strength Index is at 52, and the moving average is around 51. This means that the asset is neither overbought nor oversold.

The asset has recently been testing the resistance at the low of October 2025 but has rebounded slightly. Analysts have indicated that the direction of the asset could be influenced by the general market and the Pi Network Mainnet.

Conclusion

The mandatory upgrade marks an important step for Pi Network Mainnet as it seeks to strengthen performance and maintain decentralized integrity. The March 1 deadline places urgency on node operators to update promptly.

At the same time, the recent gains of Pi Coin are a reflection of the renewed interest in the project. The long-term impact of this upgrade will depend on its successful implementation and community participation.

Appendix: Glossary of Key Terms

Node: A workstation that completes and verifies transactions on a blockchain.

SuperNode: An advanced node type, supporting network synchronization and stability.

Stellar Consensus Protocol: a trust-based method for confirming transaction without mining.

KYC (Know Your Customer): process of identity verification that has to be done in order to participate as a node.

Security circles: sets of trusted users to whom one can connect, that assist in establishing the validation trust graph of the network.

Decentralization: A system architecture which is distributed among many players.

RSI (Relative Strength Index): A momentum indicator that measures the speed and change of price movements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pi Network Mainnet

1- What is required in the current upgrade?

All Mainnet node operators must install version 19.9 before March 1 to remain connected.

2- What happens if a node does not update?

Nodes that fail to upgrade will be disconnected from the network after the deadline.

3- What consensus system does the network use?

It uses the Stellar Consensus Protocol instead of a mining-based model.

4- Is KYC verification mandatory?

Yes. Node and SuperNode operators must complete identity verification.

Reference

Cryptotimes

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