dissolve_network
Call Re-added v133 → v165, v195 → current #61Removes a subnet from the network.
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The Big Picture
Subnets have a lifecycle. Sometimes they succeed; sometimes they don't. dissolve_network is the clean exit - it removes the subnet, deregisters all neurons, and returns your lock deposit. This frees up the slot for new subnets and lets you recover your capital from experiments that didn't work out.
Why This Matters
Creating a subnet locks significant TAO. If your subnet isn't attracting miners, isn't receiving emissions, or the project pivoted, dissolution recovers that capital. It's also good hygiene - unused subnets waste network resources.
Example Scenario
You created subnet 47 for an AI experiment. After 3 months, it has few miners and no root weight support. Your 1000 TAO is locked. Call dissolve_network(netuid=47). The subnet shuts down, miners are deregistered (they keep their stake), and your 1000 TAO lock is returned.
Common Questions
- What happens to miners' stake when I dissolve?
- Stake remains with the coldkey-hotkey pair. The registration is removed, but stake isn't lost. Miners can register on other subnets.
- Is there a waiting period before I can dissolve?
- Yes - subnets have an immunity period after creation. You can't dissolve immediately. Check SubnetImmunityPeriod for the duration.
- Can I dissolve if miners don't want me to?
- Yes - you're the owner. Miners have no veto. However, consider the community impact and give advance notice if possible.
Use Cases
- Shut down a failed or obsolete subnet experiment
- Recover locked TAO from an underperforming subnet
- Clear a subnet slot for a new project
- Exit subnet ownership cleanly
From Chain Metadata
Remove a user's subnetwork The caller must be the owner of the network
Input Parameters
Permissions
- Signer must be the subnet owner
Requirements
- Caller is subnet owner or authorized
- Subnet exists
- Immunity period has passed (if applicable)
Effects
Storage Modified
Postconditions
- Subnet removed from active networks
- All neurons on subnet deregistered
- Subnet parameters cleared
- Lock cost returned to owner (minus any penalties)
Side Effects
- Stake from subnet neurons may be returned
- Emission redistribution among remaining subnets
- Netuid becomes available for reuse
Possible Errors
Code Examples
import { ApiPromise, WsProvider } from "@polkadot/api";
import { stringCamelCase } from "@polkadot/util";
const provider = new WsProvider("wss://entrypoint-finney.opentensor.ai:443");
const api = await ApiPromise.create({ provider });
// Build dissolve_network call
const coldkey = "5GrwvaEF5zXb26Fz9rcQpDWS57CtERHpNehXCPcNoHGKutQY";
const netuid = 1;
const call = api.tx[stringCamelCase("SubtensorModule")][stringCamelCase("dissolve_network")](
coldkey,
netuid
);Version History
Runtime Info
View Source- Pallet Index
- 7
- Call Index
- 61
- First Version
- v133
- Current Version
- v393