Conflux (CFX) v3.1.0 Hardfork to Enable CIP-173 on Aug 26

Conflux (CFX), a Layer-1 blockchain known for its hybrid Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus, has announced its v3.1.0 network upgrade, including a hardfork. Node operators must update by the epoch number 155140000, estimated to occur on August 25, 2026, to avoid disruptions. CIP-173, a fix for PoS dispute verification, will activate on August 26 when the PoS block number reaches 3749400.

This upgrade implements seven Conflux Improvement Proposals (CIPs), addressing both Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility and key bug fixes. Key EVM-related updates include CIP-166 and CIP-167, which align Conflux with Ethereum standards like EIP-7939 (adding a new CLZ opcode) and EIP-7951 (introducing secp256r1 curve signature verification). Bug fixes span CIP-172 to CIP-176, tackling issues from canonical transaction encoding to cross-space call resolutions and memory access in smart contracts.

Importantly, the upgrade includes a yet-undisclosed security patch. To mitigate potential exploits, full details will remain private until the network update is complete. The Conflux team has also overhauled RPC services, introducing new methods like eth_createAccessList and trace_call, alongside migrating to the jsonrpsee framework for better performance and security.

Node operators must follow specific upgrade instructions to ensure compatibility. Those upgrading before August 25 should replace their current pos_config.yaml file and restart nodes using the updated Conflux v3.1.0 binary. Operators who delay upgrades past the deadline will need to delete all node data and perform a fresh setup. Failure to update will render nodes incompatible with the network, disabling functions like block synchronization and mining.

Conflux’s native token, CFX, trades at $0.04435 as of August 3, with a market cap of $231.82 million. While the price has seen a modest 0.18% increase in the past 24 hours, the hardfork may serve as a catalyst for greater user engagement and developer activity. The network’s focus on EVM compatibility, evidenced by updates like CIP-166 and CIP-167, underscores its aim to attract Ethereum developers and enhance interoperability.

Beyond this hardfork, Conflux has made strides in 2026 with ecosystem expansions, including USDT0 stablecoin integration on its EVM-compatible eSpace and promotional events on exchanges like KuCoin. These moves align with its strategy to position itself as an Asia-focused blockchain with robust stablecoin infrastructure and scalable Web3 applications.

For developers and traders, CIP-173 activation and the broader v3.1.0 hardfork represent a significant step in improving network functionality and security. With the upgrade deadline fast approaching, timely node updates are crucial for smooth participation in the Conflux ecosystem.

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