A validator is a participant on a network that uses proof of stakeProof of stakeA consensus method where crypto is locked up as a stake for the right to create blocks, and anyone who cheats can lose part of that stake.. Validators lock up their own crypto as a stake, create new blocks when it is their turn and check blocks proposed by others. They play the same role as miners on the Bitcoin network. The difference is that instead of computing power and electricity, it is the stake that keeps them honest.
Together, validators make sure the network agrees on a single version of the blockchain. The rules they follow are called a consensus mechanismConsensus mechanismThe rules that let thousands of computers agree on a single version of a blockchain without trusting any one party..
Validators on Ethereum
- Stake. Becoming a validator takes at least 32 ETHEther (ETH)The currency of the Ethereum network, used to pay network fees, as a stake under proof of stake and to send value between people.. Since an upgrade in May 2025, a single validator can stake up to 2,048 ETH.
- Equipment. A validator runs three pieces of software on a computer that needs to stay connected almost around the clock.
- Duties. Time is divided into 12-second slots. In each slot, one validator is chosen at random to propose a block, and a group of others votes on whether the block is valid.
People with less than 32 ETH, or who don't want to run their own equipment, can take part through a StakingStakingLocking up crypto on a proof-of-stake network to help confirm transactions, in return for rewards paid in the same crypto. service.
Rewards and penalties
Validators earn rewards in ETH for carrying out their duties. Those who are offline when their turn comes miss out on the reward and receive a small penalty.
Cheating is treated far more seriously, for example proposing two different blocks for the same slot or casting votes that contradict each other. Part of the stake is then taken away and the validator is removed from the network. This is called SlashingSlashingA penalty on proof-of-stake networks. A validator that breaks the rules loses part of its stake and is removed from the network.. If many validators are caught cheating at the same time, the entire stake can be lost.
Other proof-of-stake networks have their own rules on stakes, rewards and penalties.
Everything in Myntkaup Learn is written and regularly reviewed by the Myntkaup editorial team. It is for education and is not investment advice. Editorial policy. Updated 18 October 2026.