Validator Node
Also known as: Validator, PoS Validator
A network participant responsible for validating transactions and producing or finalizing blocks.
A Validator Node is a full node in a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) or hybrid blockchain network that validates transactions, proposes and signs new blocks, and participates in consensus mechanisms. Validators must stake or lock tokens to be eligible, and they earn rewards for honest participation while risking slashing for misbehavior. Validator infrastructure requires secure key management, uptime, and responsiveness. They are foundational to network security, consensus integrity, and decentralization.