# Subnet

Subnets are distributed intelligence and customizable AI applications as sidelayers on the Hypertensor network that utilize the security of the Hypertensor blockchain.

Each subnet undergoes 2 phases to become activated:

### Registration Phase

Once a subnet is registered, it begins its registration period that lasts for 1 week. Within the time, users can delegate stake to the subnet, and can activate subnet nodes under the subnet based on the [initial coldkeys](#initial-coldkeys).

#### Permissions

* Nodes can register
* Users can delegate stake
* The owner **can activate** (**if activation conditions are met** and the minimum registration period is met)

#### Minimum Registration Period

The minimum epochs a subnet must stay in the registration phase (see `MinSubnetRegistrationEpochs`). The minimum registration period is always less than or equal to the registration phase length.

### Enactment Phase

The enactment phase follows the registration phase and lasts for 3 days. By this time, the subnet must have the minimum required nodes activated, as no more nodes can register. During this time, users can continue to delegate stake to the subnet.

In this phase, the subnet owner can activate the subnet to begin consensus and generate emissions. **To activate**, the subnet must have the **minimum required nodes** and the **minimum required subnet delegate stake balance**.

#### Permissions

* Users can continue to delegate stake
* The owner **can activate** (**if activation conditions are met**)
  * If not all of the activation conditions are met, the subnet is deregistered.

## Phases Overview

<figure><img src="/files/GmcTd1FgJPdubB1rNbYf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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