What is Ethereum Staking?

Ethereum staking is the process of participating in the validation of transactions on the Ethereum blockchain by holding and locking up ETH. This process supports the security and efficiency of the network, making it more decentralized and resilient against attacks. Validators, who are responsible for securing the network, are selected to propose and attest to new blocks based on the amount of ETH they have staked.

What to know before staking

Staking ETH deviates from most other blockchain protocols. Before you begin staking Ethereum, it's important to understand a few key elements. These foundational points will help you navigate the staking process and make informed decisions. For more detailed information on each topic, follow the provided links to our comprehensive documentation.

Staking is Done in Increments of 32 ETH:
To become a validator on the Ethereum network, you must stake ETH in multiples of 32 ETH. This requirement is set by the Ethereum protocol. Learn more here

Complex Validator Lifecycle:
The lifecycle of a validator involves several stages, including activation, validation, and exiting. Each stage has specific requirements and processes. Learn more here.

Non-Static Entry and Exit Queue:
The entry and exit queues for validators are dynamic and depend on the network's current state. The churn limit regulates the number of validators that can join or leave the network per epoch. Learn more more

Rewards on Both Execution and Consensus Layers:
Validators earn rewards from both the execution layer and the consensus layer. Execution layer rewards come from transaction fees and MEV opportunities, while consensus layer rewards are for block proposals, attestations, and participation in sync committees. Learn more here

By understanding these key elements, you can better prepare for the Ethereum staking process with Norhtstake.