Collection of guides and tutorials on blockchain protocol, node deployments, validators & staking.
New to blockchain & crypto? Here are some of the common questions and answers every crypto enthusiast needs to know!
What is a node in crypto?
Every layer 1 blockchain network needs a node to function. A blockchain node’s main job is to confirm the state of each batch of network transactions, known as blocks. Anyone may run a node by downloading a blockchain’s transaction history. Many crypto and blockchain enthusiasts volunteer to run nodes.
What is a validator node?
Validator node is a full node that also participates in the network’s consensus. Validator node’s main function is to verify blocks, voting on network changes and transactions & maintaining record of network transactions. In proof of stake (PoS) systems, those who run validator nodes are given rewards for staking the network’s token and correctly participating in the network.
What is RPC in Crypto?
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) is a set of protocols and interfaces that a client uses to interact with a blockchain network. Common purpose for using RPC in a blockchain network is to perform operations like viewing a balance, creating a transaction, or interacting with a smart contract. RPCs are what give us the ability to establish that connection with the servers otherwise known as nodes.
What does ‘staking crypto’ mean?
Staking is part of a consensus mechanism called “proof of stake.” Staking is the way many blockchain networks verify their transactions, and it allows participants to earn rewards on their token holdings. In simple words, you will lock your tokens with the blockchain network validator in order to make the network safer and you are rewarded with a certain % of token.
What is the difference between full-node and validator node?
It is common for blockchain networks to have both full nodes and validator nodes however, they both serve different purposes.
Full nodes: Can be run by anyone, validate transactions, provide responses to RPC requests from clients. Rely on validator signatures to prove the validity of their results to clients & Maintain historical information about the state of the blockchain
Validator nodes: Can only be run by meeting hardware and network requirements such as allocating tokens. Validate transactions as part of the consensus process, accept write transactions from clients, and provide signatures that authenticate the state of a blockchain.