Proof of Stake (PoS)
Also known as: PoS, Staking Consensus, Stake-based Consensus, Validator Consensus
Proof of Stake (PoS) is a blockchain consensus mechanism where validators are chosen based on how much cryptocurrency they hold and stake.
Proof of Stake (PoS) is a blockchain consensus mechanism that selects validators based on how much cryptocurrency they hold and lock as a stake. It replaces the energy-intensive mining of Proof of Work with a more eco-friendly system.
Validators earn rewards for validating transactions and adding blocks, but risk losing their stake through slashing if they act maliciously.
PoS was introduced to improve scalability, reduce energy use, and democratize access to blockchain participation.
Major PoS-based networks include Ethereum (post-Merge), Cardano, Solana, Polkadot, and Avalanche—each with unique implementations of the mechanism.