Node Operator and Validator
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Last updated
What do validator nodes actually do?
In short, validator nodes on the Ethereum network process transactions and secure the network. This is done via the consensus mechanism where each validator puts 32 ETH at stake to vouch for the validity of new blocks - with a bundle of transactions in them - that either others or themselves have created.
In exchange for doing the work above, validators receive rewards from both users and the Ethereum protocol directly. However, if validators are caught acting dishonestly by other nodes in the network, their stake is slashed - forcibly burning their 32 ETH based on the severity of their actions. This mechanism is further explained in the Rewards and penalties section.
