Validator
A validator is a participant in a proof-of-stake network that checks transactions, proposes new blocks and votes on blocks proposed by others. To take part, a validator usually locks up a required amount of tokens as a stake. In return for honest, reliable work it earns rewards, and it can be penalised for misbehaviour or extended downtime. Validators may be run by individuals, companies, exchanges or staking services on behalf of token holders.
Related terms
- Proof of Stake Consensus secured by validators who put tokens at risk. Consensus
- Staking Locking tokens to help secure a network in exchange for rewards. Consensus
- Slashing A penalty that destroys part of a misbehaving validator’s stake. Consensus
- Consensus Mechanism The rules that let a network agree on one version of the ledger. Consensus