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Become a Validator on ODIN Protocol

Becoming a validator on the ODIN Protocol chain involves several steps, which are similar to those found in Cosmos SDK-based networks. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to become an ODIN validator, ensuring you contribute to the network’s decentralization and security.

Prerequisites​

  1. Hardware Requirements: Ensure that your hardware meets the minimum requirements:

    • CPU: 4 cores (8 recommended)
    • Memory: 16 GB RAM (32 GB recommended)
    • Storage: SSD with at least 500 GB of storage space
    • Network: High-speed internet connection (minimum 1 Gbps recommended)

  2. Software Requirements:

    • Operating System: Linux (Ubuntu 20.04 or similar)
    • Go Language: Version 1.18 or higher
    • Cosmos SDK: Required for building the ODIN Protocol binaries

Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Validator​

Step 1: Install Dependencies​

First, install the necessary dependencies on your Linux system:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install -y build-essential git curl wget jq

Install Go:

wget https://golang.org/dl/go1.22.linux-amd64.tar.gz
sudo tar -C /usr/local -xzf go1.22.linux-amd64.tar.gz
export PATH=$PATH:/usr/local/go/bin

Add the Go path to your shell profile:

echo 'export PATH=$PATH:/usr/local/go/bin' >> ~/.profile
source ~/.profile

Step 2: Clone the ODIN Protocol Repository​

Clone the ODIN Protocol repository and build the binaries:

git clone https://github.com/ODIN-PROTOCOL/odin-core
cd odin
make install

This command will install the odind binary, which is used to interact with the ODIN Protocol chain.

Step 3: Initialize Your Node​

Initialize your node with the following command:

odind init <moniker-name> --chain-id odin-mainnet-freya

Replace <moniker-name> with a name that will identify your node.

Step 4: Configure Node Settings​

Edit the configuration files to set up your node:

  • Open config.toml to configure persistent_peers, seeds, and min_gas_prices.
nano ~/.odin/config/config.toml

Set persistent_peers with the list of trusted nodes to help you connect to the network. Update min_gas_prices to ensure you have the correct settings for transaction fees.

Step 5: Start Syncing the Blockchain​

To start syncing the blockchain, run the following command:

odind start

This will connect your node to the ODIN network and begin downloading blocks. The initial synchronization may take several hours or even days, depending on your hardware and network speed.

Step 6: Create a Wallet​

To become a validator, you need a wallet to hold ODIN tokens. Create a new wallet with:

odind keys add <wallet-name>

Save the mnemonic phrase securely, as you will need it to access your wallet.

Step 7: Obtain ODIN Tokens​

To become a validator, you need to stake ODIN tokens. Obtain ODIN tokens by purchasing them from an exchange or receiving them from delegators.

Step 8: Submit a Validator Creation Transaction​

Once your node is synced and you have sufficient tokens, submit a transaction to become a validator:

odind tx staking create-validator \
  --amount=<amount-odin> \
  --pubkey=$(odind tendermint show-validator) \
  --moniker="<moniker-name>" \
  --chain-id=odin-mainnet \
  --commission-rate="0.10" \
  --commission-max-rate="0.20" \
  --commission-max-change-rate="0.01" \
  --min-self-delegation="1" \
  --fees=2000loki \
  --from=<wallet-name>

Replace <amount-odin>, <moniker-name>, and <wallet-name> with the appropriate values. This command will broadcast a transaction to the network, registering your node as a validator.

Step 9: Maintain Your Validator​

Validators are responsible for signing blocks and maintaining network integrity. To ensure your validator is running smoothly:

  • Monitor Logs: Use the following command to monitor your node's logs: 
    journalctl -fu odind
  • Update Regularly: Stay up-to-date with software updates and network proposals to ensure your validator remains in compliance with the network.
  • Ensure Uptime: Validators with frequent downtime may be penalized or jailed, so ensure your infrastructure is reliable.

Important Considerations​

  • Security: Running a validator requires keeping your node secure. Set up a firewall, disable unnecessary services, and consider using a dedicated server for added security.
  • Backups: Regularly back up your wallet keys and important configuration files to avoid loss of funds or access.

Resources​

By following this guide, you can successfully join the ODIN Protocol chain as a validator, contribute to network security, and participate in governance. Welcome to the ODIN community!