Staking is a foundational module that powers Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus networks. It allows token holders to delegate their assets to validators—network participants responsible for producing blocks and maintaining security. On OKTC, this system dynamically selects block producers based on the total stake delegated to each validator and determines block order through voting power. This guide will walk you through the entire process of becoming a validator using command-line interface (CLI) tools.
Understanding the OKTC Validator Rotation Mechanism
OKTC re-elects its block producers at regular intervals known as cycles. Each cycle spans a fixed number of blocks—specifically, 252 blocks. The validator set remains unchanged during a cycle, but on the 251st block, the system begins the election process for the next cycle.
The top 21 validators with the highest amount of OKT staked (including self-delegation and user delegation) become block producers for the upcoming cycle. Those outside the top 21 are automatically removed from the active set. Note that only integer values of OKT are considered—decimal portions are ignored during ranking.
This rotation mechanism ensures decentralization and continuous participation based on stakeholder trust and economic commitment.
Essential CLI Commands for Validators
The OKTC staking module provides several CLI commands to manage validator operations. Below are the most commonly used ones:
create-validator: Register a new validatoredit-validator: Modify validator detailsedit-validator-commission-rate: Adjust commission ratesdestroy-validator: Deregister a validator
💡 Pro Tip: Before proceeding, ensure you're familiar with basic delegation concepts and CLI operations. It's highly recommended to review the delegator guide first.
How to Create a Validator
Use the create-validator command to promote your node to validator status. This command requires several parameters:
- Pubkey: Your Tendermint public key (retrieve it using
exchaind tendermint show-validator) - Moniker: Your validator’s public name or alias
- Identity: A link to your validator’s logo or profile image
- Website: Your official website URL
- Details: A brief description of your services or background
- From: Your operator account address
- gasPrice: Transaction fee (e.g.,
0.00000001okt)
Example command structure:
exchaind tx staking create-validator --pubkey=<pubkey> --moniker="YourMoniker" --identity="<image_url>" --website="https://yourwebsite.com" --details="Description" --from=<account_name> --gas-price="0.00000001okt"Editing Validator Information
Already a validator? Use edit-validator to update your profile:
- moniker: Change your validator’s display name
- identity: Update your profile image
- website: Modify your website URL
- details: Revise your description
- from: Your operator account
- gasPrice:
0.00000001okt
This command helps you keep your information current and transparent for delegators.
Adjusting Your Commission Rate
Validators earn fees through commissions on staking rewards. Use edit-validator-commission-rate to change this rate:
- commissionRate: A value between 0 and 1 (e.g., 0.2 for 20%)
- from: Operator account
- gasPrice:
0.00000001okt
Note: You can only adjust your commission rate once every 24 hours. A 0% commission means all rewards go to delegators; 100% means you keep all rewards (not recommended for attracting delegations).
Deregistering a Validator
If you wish to exit the validator set, use destroy-validator. This command unbonds your self-delegated OKT and removes you from the active validator list.
⚠️ Important: After deregistering, your OKT will undergo a 14-day unbonding period during which they are non-transferrable.
Advanced CLI Operations
Beyond the basics, OKTC supports many other staking-related commands:
deposit: Add more stake to your validatorwithdraw: Remove stake (subject to unbonding)query staking validator: Check validator status and detailsquery distr commission: View earned commissionsquery distr rewards: See pending rewards
For a full list of commands and detailed usage, 👉 explore the advanced staking CLI documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum stake required to become a validator?
While OKTC doesn’t enforce a strict minimum, only the top 21 validators by total stake produce blocks. You’ll need sufficient OKT (self-delegated or delegated) to compete.
Can I change my validator’s name after creation?
Yes. Use the edit-validator command to update your moniker and other metadata at any time.
How often can I adjust my commission rate?
You can change your commission rate only once every 24 hours. This prevents频繁 adjustments that might discourage delegators.
What happens if I miss blocks or go offline?
Validators may be slashed (penalized) for downtime or malicious behavior. Ensure high availability to avoid losing stake.
How do I attract delegators?
Maintain a high uptime, offer a competitive commission rate, and provide clear communication about your operation and security practices.
Where can I get OKT tokens for staking?
OKT is the native token of OKTC. You can acquire it through exchanges or participate in network initiatives to earn tokens.
Becoming a validator on OKTC is a rewarding way to contribute to network security and earn staking rewards. By following this guide and using the CLI commands effectively, you can confidently manage your validator node. For further details, 👉 review the complete CLI command set.