Validators have two crucial roles in maintaining the Polkadot network. First, they participate in consensus with other validators to produce new blocks on the Relay Chain. Second, they verify and validate the information in the assigned parachain blocks.
In return for their work and performance, they receive rewards in the form of DOT. Their rewards come in two forms:
From transaction fees and transaction tips
From staking rewards, which are newly minted DOT from the network's inflation. These are calculated based on the validator's own stake of DOT and their commission if it's not 0%
Should they not comply with the consensus algorithm (e.g., go offline, attack the network, or run modified software), they and their nominators will be punished by losing some or all of their staked DOTs. This is called "slashing" and is a way of discouraging bad actors in the network.
Becoming a validator requires some technical skills, a stake of DOT, as well as trust and support from the community in the form of nominations.
If you want to become a validator, you will find lots of tech resources in our Wiki. You can also join other validators in the Validators Lounge on Element Chat.
For a more detailed explanation of the roles and responsibilities of validators, please check this video:
Please let us know below if you found this article helpful or feel free to contact us if you need further assistance.
Was this article helpful?
That’s Great!
Thank you for your feedback
Sorry! We couldn't be helpful
Thank you for your feedback
Feedback sent
We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article
Disclaimer: We always strive to provide you with the best support we can and we take all care to ensure that our instructions are accurate and concise. However, following these instructions properly, as well as the general management of your accounts and funds, is ultimately your responsibility. Web3 Foundation cannot be held liable for any accidental loss of funds or any other damage you might incur.
