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Staking Tokens

Staking allows you to participate in securing the Aztec network while earning rewards. This guide explains how staking works and how to get started.

Before You Stake​

Understanding these concepts will help you make informed decisions:

Overview​

When you stake tokens on the Aztec network, your tokens are locked in a smart contract and used to secure the network. In return, you earn a share of the network rewards proportional to your stake.

Key Concepts​

  • Activation Threshold: The minimum amount required to become an active validator
  • Staking Period: Tokens must remain staked for a minimum period before withdrawal
  • Rewards: Earned based on your stake proportion and network activity
  • Slashing Risk: Validators who misbehave may have a portion of their stake slashed

Staking Options​

Option 1: Run Your Own Validator​

If you have the technical expertise and infrastructure, you can run your own sequencer node and stake directly.

Requirements:

  • Meet the minimum stake threshold
  • Run and maintain sequencer infrastructure
  • Ensure high availability and proper operation

See the Sequencer Setup Guide for details.

Option 2: Delegate to an Operator​

If you don't want to run infrastructure, you can delegate your stake to a professional operator.

See Delegating Stake for details.

Understanding Slashing Risk​

Before staking, understand that your stake can be partially slashed if:

  • The validator you stake with (or delegate to) commits protocol violations
  • The validator is inactive for extended periods
  • The validator proposes or attests to invalid blocks

Slashing is managed through governance voting based on evidence collected both onchain and offchain.

Unstaking​

When you want to withdraw your staked tokens, you must go through an unstaking process with a mandatory exit delay.

The exit delay for mainnet is 4 days.

The exit delay exists to allow time for pending slashing conditions to be detected and to prevent validators from quickly exiting after misbehaving.

How to Unstake​

To unstake your tokens, use the Aztec Staking Dashboard. The dashboard guides you through the unstaking process:

  1. Initiate withdrawal: Select your validator and begin the exit process
  2. Wait for the exit delay: Your tokens remain locked during this period
  3. Finalize withdrawal: After the delay, complete the withdrawal to receive your tokens

If you've delegated stake, contact your operator or use the delegation interface to request unstaking.

Important Considerations​

  • Slashing Risk: You can still be slashed during the exit delay if misbehavior is detected from when you were active
  • No Rewards During Exit: You do not earn staking rewards during the exit delay period

Next Steps​