Staking on Aleo
Staking is one important way the Aleo community can earn rewards while contributing to the crypto-economic security of the network. Consensus and security of the Aleo Network is determined by a set of validator nodes. Validators are required to lock up a large stake of Aleo Credits in order to incentivize participating honestly in the consensus process. In exchange, validators then receive a reward for each block they produce. However, in order to become a validator, a minimum stake of 10,000,000 Aleo Credits is required. This ensures that the network is economically secured by parties with a significant investment in the system. To learn more about becoming a validator, head over to the Aleo Developer Docs. Most individuals will likely not have the resources to individually meet the validator stake threshold. The Aleo Network also allows users to delegate their tokens to support validators, helping them become active participants in the consensus process while proportionally sharing in the rewards. This article will help guide you through some of the tools and services available to participate in the delegated staking process.
Delegated Staking Types
Native Staking
Native staking enables token holders to interact onchain and stake their Aleo Credits directly, without the need to rely on third-party programs or custodial services. As mentioned, native staking is part of the consensus process and is defined in the core network protocol. As such, the native staking functions are made available through the credits.aleo program.
In order to participate in native staking as a delegator, users must be able to stake at least 10,000 Aleo Credits. We've provided a guide to help you through this process.
Liquid Staking
Liquid staking is an innovative approach that allows users to stake their Aleo Credits while maintaining liquidity. Instead of locking up your stake, you receive a liquid staking token that represents your position. This enables you to participate in staking while still being able to use your tokens in other DeFi activities. Liquid staking platforms allow users to participate with less than 10,000 Aleo Credits, making staking more accessible to everyone.
Below you'll find some liquid staking providers on Aleo:
Tools
Playground
The Leo Playground is a web-based environment that provides all things necessary for interacting with the Aleo network, all in the browser! Users can create accounts, query information from the blockchain, and execute program deployed onchain. In particular, this environment is a helpful tool for allowing users to interact with the native staking features provided in the credits.aleo program.
Block Explorers
Block explorers are crucial tools for any blockchain ecosystem, allowing users to view transactions, blocks, and other on-chain data. With regards to staking, users are able to view a list of active validators on the Aleo Network validators. For the Aleo Network, several block explorers are available:
Wallets
Secure and user-friendly wallets are essential for managing your Aleo Credits and participating in staking. Below you'll find some wallets developed for the Aleo ecosystem:
Reminder: Do Your Own Research (DYOR)
While we aim to provide information about available resources, it's crucial to always conduct your own research, verify the authenticity and security of any tool you plan to use, and make informed decisions based on your individual needs and risk tolerance.
Some of the tools and resources mentioned in this article are built by third-party members of the community. The Aleo Network Foundation has not reviewed the functionality, security, or operations of these resources, does not endorse them, and is not responsible for any use of them. You are solely responsible for your use of these tools and managing your relationship with these third parties, including entering any required contract terms.
Stay tuned for more updates and resources to help you navigate the world of Aleo staking. Happy staking!
