How do I know my network is a Subnet or L1?

With the AvalancheGo Etna release and the implementation of ACP-77, Avalanche networks are now categorized based on their creation date relative to Etna. Networks established before Etna are known as “Subnets,” while those created post-Etna are referred to as L1s.

A key distinction lies in their validator sets. Avalanche Subnets are validated by a portion of the Primary Network’s validator set. In contrast, the new L1 network creation process does not necessitate any overlap between the new network’s validator set and the Primary Network’s validator set.

To quickly determine if a network is a Subnet or an L1, inspect its validator set:

Subnets will display Start/Progress/End/Duration fields for their validator nodes. An example can be seen at https://subnets.avax.network/space/details (Note: the screenshot was taken on 06/10/2025. And this network may transition to an L1 in the future and it may look different).

Subnet Explorer Page

L1s will not have an ending time for their validators; instead, they will feature a Remaining Balance field. For instance, refer to https://subnets.avax.network/henesys/details.

L1 Explorer Page

For any additional questions, please view our other knowledge base articles or contact a support team member via the chat button. Examples are for illustrative purposes only.

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