Validator
A consensus participant that proposes, verifies, or attests to blocks, often after bonding stake in a proof-of-stake network.
A validator runs software that participates in consensus by checking blocks, voting or attesting, and sometimes proposing new blocks. In proof-of-stake systems, validators usually lock collateral that can earn rewards or be penalized.
Validators must stay online, follow protocol rules, and protect signing keys. Downtime can reduce rewards, while serious misbehavior such as double-signing can trigger slashing on networks that support it.
Related terms
3 linkedExplore connected entries beyond the alphabetical index.
Staking
→Locking or delegating tokens to support a proof-of-stake network or protocol in exchange for potential rewards.
Staking Rewards
→Token payouts earned by validators or delegators for participating in proof-of-stake security or protocol incentives.
Proof of Stake
→A consensus method where validators use staked cryptocurrency to create blocks and secure the network.
All terms and definitions may update as the Cryptionary improves.
