Validators and Node Operators

Validators run software that proposes blocks, attests to others' blocks, and syncs chain state. Uptime and correct configuration determine rewards versus penalties.

Downtime causes small inactivity penalties; correlated failures during network issues are manageable if brief. Never expose validator keys online unnecessarily — use dedicated machines or hardware security modules for serious solo operations.

Staking-as-a-service firms run validators for depositors who prefer not to manage infrastructure. The tradeoff is operational simplicity versus trusting a third party with uptime and key handling.