lolMiner KAS configuration file example

lolMiner does not support Kaspa’s kHeavyHash algorithm, making it incompatible for KAS mining despite common misconceptions.

Jul 24, 2025 at 01:21 am

Understanding lolMiner and KAS Configuration Basics

lolMiner is a popular GPU mining software widely used for Ethereum and other Ethereum-based networks, including KAS (Kaspa), a high-throughput blockchain protocol leveraging the BlockDAG structure. Although lolMiner is primarily optimized for Ethash and Autolykos algorithms, users often attempt to configure it for alternative networks like Kaspa. However, KAS uses the kHeavyHash algorithm, which is not currently supported by lolMiner. Despite this, some users may seek configuration examples under the assumption that lolMiner supports Kaspa, leading to confusion.

When attempting to configure a miner, it's crucial to verify algorithm compatibility. The kHeavyHash algorithm used by Kaspa requires specialized miners such as kHeavyHashMiner or GMiner, which support the algorithm. lolMiner does not support kHeavyHash as of its latest public release. Therefore, any configuration file created for lolMiner targeting KAS will not function correctly.

Even though a working lolMiner configuration for KAS is not feasible, understanding how a typical lolMiner config file is structured helps users avoid misconfiguration. A standard lolMiner configuration uses a JSON format and includes parameters such as pool address, wallet address, worker name, and algorithm selection.

Structure of a lolMiner Configuration File

A typical lolMiner configuration file is a JSON file that defines all necessary parameters for connecting to a mining pool. Below is the general structure:

{
  "pool": "stratum+tcp://pool.example.com:3333",
  "user": "0xYourWalletAddress.WorkerName",
  "pass": "x",
  "algo": "AUTO",
  "watchdog": true,
  "color": true,
  "apiport": 42000
}

Each key serves a specific function:

• "pool" specifies the mining pool’s URL and port. Ensure the protocol (stratum+tcp) matches the pool’s requirements.
• "user" includes the wallet address and an optional worker identifier separated by a period.
• "pass" is typically set to "x" for most pools unless a specific password is required.
• "algo" sets the mining algorithm. For Ethereum, this would be "ETHASH", but KAS requires kHeavyHash, which lolMiner does not support.
• "watchdog" enables process monitoring to restart the miner if it crashes.
• "color" enables colored console output for better readability.
• "apiport" opens a local port for monitoring hashrate and status via tools like Claymore’s API.

This configuration is saved as config.json in the lolMiner directory and loaded at startup using the --config flag.

Why lolMiner Cannot Mine KAS

The fundamental issue lies in algorithm incompatibility. Kaspa’s consensus mechanism relies on kHeavyHash, a variant of HeavyHash optimized for ASIC resistance and high-speed block processing. lolMiner, however, is built to support algorithms like Ethash, Autolykos v2, and Cuckoo, none of which are applicable to the Kaspa network.

Even if a user modifies the "algo" field to a custom value or attempts to force connection to a Kaspa pool, the miner will fail to authenticate or submit valid shares. Mining software must implement the exact hashing function and data formatting required by the target blockchain. Without native support for kHeavyHash, lolMiner cannot generate valid proofs of work for Kaspa.

Furthermore, Kaspa mining is dominated by FPGA and ASIC devices due to the performance demands of processing thousands of blocks per second. GPU mining on Kaspa is generally unprofitable, and software support for GPU miners remains limited to a few specialized tools.

Correct Tools for Mining Kaspa (KAS)

To mine Kaspa effectively, users must use compatible software. The recommended miners include:

• kHeavyHashMiner – Official miner developed for Kaspa, supports both CPU and GPU.
• GMiner – Supports kHeavyHash on NVIDIA GPUs.
• NBMiner – Also provides kHeavyHash support for NVIDIA and AMD.

For example, using GMiner, a correct configuration for Kaspa would look like:

miner.exe --algo kheavyhash --server kaspapool.com --port 4444 --user your_wallet_address.worker

This command specifies:

• --algo kheavyhash to match Kaspa’s algorithm.
• --server and --port pointing to a supported Kaspa mining pool.
• --user with the wallet and worker name.

Users must download the appropriate miner, ensure GPU drivers are updated, and select a reliable pool such as kaspapool.com or flypool.org.

Common Misconfigurations and How to Avoid Them

Many users mistakenly believe that changing the pool and wallet in a lolMiner config will enable KAS mining. This leads to errors such as:

• "Invalid algorithm" – lolMiner rejects unsupported algo names.
• "Connection refused" – The pool may not accept connections from incompatible miners.
• "Login failed" – Authentication fails due to incorrect protocol or hashing method.

To prevent these issues:

• Always verify the mining algorithm required by the blockchain.
• Use only miners that explicitly list support for that algorithm.
• Consult official documentation or community forums for verified setup guides.
• Test configurations with verbose logging enabled to diagnose connection issues.

Avoid using placeholder values for "algo" or assuming generic settings will adapt automatically. Miners do not auto-detect algorithms unless explicitly programmed to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I modify lolMiner’s source code to support kHeavyHash?

While technically possible, modifying lolMiner to support kHeavyHash requires deep knowledge of CUDA, OpenCL, and the kHeavyHash specification. The developer would need to implement the hashing kernel, integrate it with the mining loop, and ensure compatibility with Kaspa’s stratum protocol. This is a complex task and not recommended for average users.

Is there a GPU miner for Kaspa that works on AMD cards?

Yes, NBMiner supports kHeavyHash on both NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Users must ensure their drivers are up to date and use the correct command-line parameters pointing to a Kaspa mining pool.

What happens if I try to run lolMiner with a fake kHeavyHash setting?

lolMiner will either fail to start, disconnect immediately from the pool, or continuously submit invalid shares. The pool will reject these shares, and no rewards will be earned. The miner may also log algorithm mismatch errors.

Are there any pools that accept lolMiner for KAS mining?

No. All major Kaspa pools require miners that support the kHeavyHash algorithm. Since lolMiner does not implement this algorithm, no legitimate pool will accept connections from it for KAS mining.