Expanding the Aleo validator set: A step toward greater decentralization

The Aleo Network continues to evolve and so does our commitment to decentralization and security. As part of this ongoing effort, we expanded the validator set from 16 to 25 on mainnet. This update went live at block height 4,900,000 (~February 19, 2025, at current block time).

Expanding the validator set was a significant step in decentralizing Aleo’s consensus mechanism. By increasing the number of validators, we distributed power across more participants, reducing centralization risks and strengthening network resilience.

Additionally, Aleo’s consensus model—built on the Bullshark-based AleoBFT algorithm—benefits from increased validator participation. With this update, throughput improved to approximately 50 transactions per second, enhancing overall network efficiency.

Key details

• Increase from 16 to 25 validators on mainnet

• Consensus change at block 4,900,000 (~Feb 19, 2025)

• Improved throughput to ~50 TPS

• Performance-tested through extensive load testing

Implementation timeline

The validator expansion was implemented in phases across Canary, Testnet, and Mainnet:

• Canary: Block 4,560,000 (~January 25, 2025)

• Testnet: Block 4,800,000 (~January 31, 2025)

• Mainnet: Block 4,900,000 (~February 19, 2025)

Validators were required to upgrade to the latest snarkOS v3.3.1 release to remain in sync with the network. 

What's next?

This validator expansion was just one step in Aleo’s broader plan to responsibly scale network participation while maintaining performance and security. Future updates will continue to refine validator dynamics, and delegation mechanisms may evolve to incentivize active contributions.

We encourage validators to stay engaged, monitor network performance, and participate in discussions on how Aleo can further enhance decentralization. Thank you for being part of the Aleo ecosystem as we take this next step forward.