Validator Requirements: What It Takes to Run a Blockchain Node

When you hear validator requirements, the set of rules and resources needed to participate in securing a Proof of Stake blockchain. Also known as staking node requirements, it’s not just about owning crypto—it’s about running a reliable piece of infrastructure that keeps the network honest. Unlike mining in Bitcoin’s early days, where you needed powerful GPUs, validators in modern blockchains like Ethereum, Solana, or Cardano must meet specific technical, financial, and operational standards. These aren’t suggestions. If you don’t meet them, your stake won’t earn rewards—and you could even lose part of it.

There are three big things every validator must handle: Proof of Stake, a consensus mechanism where participants lock up crypto to validate transactions and earn rewards, staking, the act of locking up crypto to support network security, and blockchain node, a computer that stores a full copy of the blockchain and helps verify new blocks. You can’t skip any of these. For example, Ethereum requires 32 ETH to become a validator, but you also need a dedicated machine that runs 24/7 with solid internet and storage. Solana’s requirements are different—you need less crypto upfront but more computing power. Cardano lets you delegate without running your own node, but if you want to run one, you’ll need a server that can handle constant data syncing.

It’s not just about the numbers. Validators face real risks. If your node goes offline for too long, you get penalized. If your software isn’t updated, you get slashed. And if you’re using a third-party service to stake for you, you’re trusting someone else with your coins. That’s why many people start small—by delegating to a trusted validator—before taking on the full responsibility. The posts below show real cases: from the technical setup of a Solana validator to the hidden costs of running a node in a country with unstable power, like Iran or Tunisia. You’ll see what happens when validator requirements aren’t met, and why some projects fail because their validators couldn’t keep up. Whether you’re looking to earn passive income or help secure a decentralized network, understanding these requirements isn’t optional. It’s the difference between earning rewards and losing money.