Validator
A validator is a participant in a proof-of-stake network that locks up coins as collateral, checks transactions, proposes or votes on new blocks, and earns rewards for doing this correctly.
What a validator does
A validator runs software that keeps a copy of the blockchain and follows the protocol. From time to time it is chosen to propose a new block. More often it votes on, or attests to, blocks proposed by others, confirming that they follow the rules.
To take part, a validator must stake a set amount of the network's coin. On Ethereum the minimum to activate a validator is 32 ETH. The stake is what makes honesty the rational choice: misbehavior can cost real money.
How validators earn
Validators receive newly issued coins and a share of transaction fees for proposing and attesting. Rewards depend on the network's rules, the total amount staked and how reliably the validator performs. A validator that is offline misses rewards and, on some chains, pays small penalties.
An example
Say you deposit 32 ETH to run your own validator. You need a computer that stays online, the right client software and a careful key setup. If it performs well, rewards slowly add to your balance. If you accidentally run the same validator keys on two machines, it can sign conflicting messages and be slashed, losing part of the stake and being forced out.
Validators versus miners
Both secure their networks and both are paid for it. Miners spend electricity on proof-of-work puzzles; validators put capital at risk instead. That is why proof of stake uses far less energy. Many people do not run a validator themselves and instead delegate coins to one or join a staking pool.
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Frequently asked questions
Can anyone become a validator?
On permissionless chains, yes, if you meet the stake requirement and run the software. Some networks cap the number of active validators, so only the largest stakes are selected.
What happens if my validator goes offline?
Usually it simply misses rewards and may pay small inactivity penalties. Slashing is reserved for provable misbehavior such as double signing.
Is a validator the same as a node?
Every validator runs a node, but not every node is a validator. A node can verify the chain without staking or voting on blocks.
Related terms
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