Developers who want to test their smart contracts before deploying them on the main network can do so on a test network. The only test network that is currently being maintained in the long run is Goerli.
Here are the steps for testing your smart contracts on the Goerli test network:
Deploy your smart contract on the Goerli test network using a development framework such as Truffle, Hardhat, or Remix.
Test the smart contract by interacting with it through a web3 provider like MetaMask.
Debug and refine your smart contract until it meets your requirements.
To transact on a test network, you need test ether (ETH). Here's how to get test ether on the Goerli test network:
Use a faucet. Currently, the only stable faucet available for the Goerli test network is https://goerlifaucet.com/.
Sign up for an account on https://alchemy.com To stop spam attacks draining the faucet, Alchemy accounts are temporarily required.
You can request 0.2 Goerli ETH every 24h. If you're an active Alchemy user, 0.5 Goerli ETH every 24h.
Enter your Goerli test network address.
Click the “Send Me ETH” button and wait for the test ether to be deposited into your account.
If the Goerli faucet is unavailable, there are other ways to obtain test ether on the Goerli test network. Here are some alternatives:
Ask for test ether on social media. Developers in the web3 are often willing to send test ether to those in need.
Post a request for test ether on Ethereum developer forums or discords. Many developers in these communities are generous with their test ether and willing to help others test their smart contracts.
In addition, some development frameworks like Hardhat and Truffle come with built-in local blockchains that allow you to test smart contracts locally without the need for test ether. This is a good option when you need to test basic functionality before deploying to a test network.