Validator
Also called: validator node · staking node
Definition
A validator is a participant in a proof-of-stake blockchain that locks up coins as collateral and runs software to propose new blocks and vote on whether other blocks are valid.
This entry is shown in English.
How Validator works
Validators replace miners in proof-of-stake networks. They must stay online, run up-to-date software and sign blocks correctly. In return they earn rewards from new issuance and transaction fees. If they go offline they may miss rewards, and if they sign conflicting messages they can be slashed, losing part of their stake.
Each network sets its own rules. On Ethereum, running a solo validator requires 32 ETH and a reliable machine. Other chains such as Solana or Cosmos-based networks let holders delegate coins to a validator, which then shares rewards after taking a commission.
When you stake on an exchange or through a liquid staking protocol, a validator is still doing the work in the background. Choosing who runs that validator matters: uptime, commission, slashing history and how concentrated the stake already is all affect your rewards and the health of the network.
Example
Suppose you delegate 1,000 SOL to a validator. The network's gross staking reward works out to about 7 percent a year for that validator, and it charges a 5 percent commission on rewards. Gross rewards would be 70 SOL, the validator keeps 3.5 SOL, and you receive about 66.5 SOL over the year. If the validator were offline for part of the year, your actual rewards would be lower.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a validator only by the lowest commission without checking uptime and reliability.
- Thinking delegated coins are sent to the validator; on most delegation systems they stay in your account but are locked.
- Running a solo validator without backup monitoring and getting penalised for downtime.
Learn and practise
FAQ
How much ETH do you need to be a validator?
A solo Ethereum validator needs 32 ETH. With less, you can use pooled staking, an exchange product or a liquid staking protocol.
What is the difference between a validator and a miner?
A miner secures a proof-of-work chain with computing power. A validator secures a proof-of-stake chain with staked coins.
What happens if a validator is slashed?
Part of the validator's stake is destroyed and it may be removed from the active set. Delegators to that validator can also lose a share, depending on the network's rules.