TLDR

Pi Mainnet is upgrading to Protocol 22 before the Apr 27 deadline.
Node operators need updated software to stay aligned with the network.
Pi Node desktop software lists version 0.5.4 for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pi says Mainnet nodes remain behind a firewall during the Enclosed Network period.
Pi Node uses a consensus model based on the Stellar Consensus Protocol.

Pi Mainnet is moving closer to Protocol 22, and the April 27 deadline has become a key date for node operators. The update puts attention on software readiness, network alignment, and the role of desktop-based nodes in Pi’s wider blockchain plan.

The change also brings focus back to Pi Node, which is presented as a user-friendly way to support the network. Pi’s desktop software is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, with version 0.5.4 listed as the latest release.

Pi Mainnet upgrade puts attention on node readiness

Pi’s Mainnet upgrade to Protocol 22 has been framed around a firm deadline of April 27. That gives node operators a clear time window to prepare their systems. For users following the network, this marks a practical step in Pi’s blockchain rollout.

Pi describes nodes as the fourth role in its ecosystem. Unlike mobile mining, nodes run on desktop or laptop computers. Their task is to help validate transactions and support the network’s shared ledger.

The Pi Mainnet is upgrading to Protocol 22 – Deadline: Apr 27.

All Mainnet nodes are required to complete this step before the deadline to remain connected to the network.

Details here: https://t.co/9VehO7hhj1

— Pi Network (@PiCoreTeam) April 17, 2026

The Pi Node page says the software gives access to both the desktop Pi App and the node interface. This means users can log in with the same account used on the mobile app. They can also apply to serve as a node through the desktop interface.

Pi also states that Mainnet nodes are still behind a firewall during the Enclosed Network period. The document says, “”In the upcoming Open Network period, the Mainnet firewall will be removed.”” That step is expected to allow broader public participation later.

Protocol 22 follows Pi’s user-focused node model

Pi says its node design aims to keep setup simple for everyday users. The company presents the desktop app as a way to switch node activity on or off without deep technical work. That approach differs from many networks that require more manual setup.

The project says Pi Node does not use proof of work like Bitcoin. Instead, it uses a consensus method based on the Stellar Consensus Protocol. In that system, trusted groups of nodes agree on transactions before they are added to the ledger.

Pi links this trust model to security circles created by mobile users. According to the document, those circles help form a broader trust graph. That graph then helps nodes decide which participants can validate ledger activity.

The company also says node participation has three levels. These are Computer App, Node, and SuperNode. SuperNodes carry the most responsibility, including helping other nodes receive the latest blockchain state.

Testnet plans still shape the current node structure

Pi’s node document says its first release and early Testnet plan may not be current. It also says Testnet was designed to gather data and refine the system over time. That means some technical details can still change.

The roadmap names three stages for Testnet. These are the Selection Stage, Revision Stage, and Live Testnet. During those stages, Pi says it studies uptime, connectivity, hardware, and trust scores.

Pi also notes that selected node applicants must pass KYC before serving in Testnet roles. It says rewards for Testnet nodes have not been set. The document states, “”There will be no mining rewards for Testnet Nodes.””

For now, the Protocol 22 move and the April 27 deadline place focus on software updates and network readiness. As Pi continues its Enclosed Network phase, node activity remains tied to desktop access, selection rules, and future Mainnet opening plans.

The post Pi Network Pushes Protocol 22 Upgrade Ahead Of April 27 Mainnet Deadline appeared first on CoinCentral.

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Filed under: News - @ April 17, 2026 8:23 am