The VeChainThor blockchain is scheduled to undergo a major network upgrade on Sept. 16, 2026, when the Interstellar hardfork is expected to activate at block height 25,902,540. The upgrade is centered on VeChain Improvement Proposal 255, known as VIP-255, and is intended to expand the capabilities of the network’s virtual machine while bringing elements of its transaction environment closer to Ethereum-compatible standards.

The transition is expected to draw attention from VET holders, developers, and node operators because it represents a significant technical change without requiring token migration or modifications to existing contract addresses. Because activation is tied to a block height, node operators must complete their preparations before the network reaches block 25,902,540 rather than follow a separate token-conversion process.

VIP-255 Aims to Improve Ethereum Compatibility

VIP-255 introduces changes designed to improve VeChainThor’s functionality and interoperability. The proposal incorporates selected Ethereum Improvement Proposals, creating a more familiar technical environment for developers and potentially making it easier to build and operate decentralized applications on VeChainThor.

The central objective of the Interstellar upgrade is to strengthen the network’s virtual machine and improve compatibility with Ethereum-oriented transaction standards. These changes could expand the network’s usefulness for decentralized applications and developers who work with Ethereum-based tooling and transaction frameworks.

VET holders are not expected to move their tokens or modify contract addresses as part of the transition. That approach is intended to reduce operational complexity and limit disruption for users and applications already operating on VeChainThor.

The upgrade is consequently structured to combine technical modernization with network continuity. Instead of requiring widespread changes to token holdings or contract infrastructure, it is designed to preserve existing assets while introducing additional technical capabilities.

Node Operators Must Upgrade to Thor v2.5.0

Although VET holders are not expected to take major technical steps, node operators face a more immediate requirement. They will need to upgrade their infrastructure to Thor v2.5.0 before the hardfork becomes active.

The software update is necessary because nodes must follow compatible rules after the blockchain reaches the activation block. Operators that do not update could encounter transaction-processing problems, delays, or other operational issues after the new protocol rules take effect.

The requirement to move to Thor v2.5.0 underscores the importance of software readiness for maintaining consensus and uninterrupted network operations during a blockchain hardfork. Node operators are expected to monitor their software versions and complete the upgrade before the scheduled activation.

The process also demonstrates how a protocol upgrade can affect ecosystem participants differently. Ordinary token holders face limited action, while infrastructure providers carry greater technical responsibilities to ensure that the network continues operating under the new rules.

Exchanges Expected to Suspend Some VET Transfers

The Interstellar upgrade is also expected to affect VET transfers through centralized exchanges. Major platforms, including Binance, are expected to temporarily suspend VET deposits and withdrawals around the hardfork. Such restrictions are intended to manage the transition and protect users from potential network inconsistencies.

VET holders may therefore benefit from completing necessary transfers by Sept. 15 or early on Sept. 16. Trading activity may continue in accordance with each exchange’s policies, but deposit and withdrawal functions could be unavailable during the suspension period.

The temporary restrictions are not expected to change the underlying status of VET. The token supply is set to remain unchanged, and VTHO generation is also expected to continue under the existing framework after the upgrade.

Potential Effects Across the VeChain Ecosystem

Beyond the immediate technical changes, the Interstellar upgrade could affect how businesses and developers approach VeChainThor. Greater alignment with Ethereum-based standards may reduce technical barriers for developers familiar with Ethereum tools and transaction systems.

The upgrade comes as blockchain companies continue to assess interoperability, liquidity management, and compliance requirements. For Web3 businesses, protocol changes can influence infrastructure planning, application compatibility, and operational processes.

The Sept. 16 activation will therefore be more than a routine software update. It will require network participants to coordinate infrastructure changes while maintaining continuity for users and applications.

For VET holders, the main considerations are exchange restrictions and the timing of transfers before any temporary suspension. For developers and node operators, ensuring software compatibility before the activation block will be more important.

With the Interstellar hardfork approaching, VeChainThor is pursuing greater technical compatibility while seeking to minimize disruption for existing users. The transition will depend on timely preparation and coordination among infrastructure providers, exchanges, developers, and token holders.

Source: CoinTrust