> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://chad-2-0.gitbook.io/chad-2.0-white-paper-1/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://chad-2-0.gitbook.io/chad-2.0-white-paper-1/chad-2.0-ecosystem/chadchain/validators.md). # Validators In CHADCHAIN, validators play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of the blockchain. As participants responsible for block validation, their collective efforts contribute to achieving consensus and confirming transactions. Validators are tasked with proposing and validating new blocks within the CHADCHAIN network. Their primary responsibility is to verify the legitimacy of transactions and ensure that they adhere to the protocol rules. By doing so, validators enable smooth and efficient transaction processing, enhancing the overall user experience. CHADCHAIN adopts the Proof of Authority (PoA) consensus mechanism, where validators are selected based on their reputation, expertise, and trustworthiness. Unlike Proof of Work (PoW) or Proof of Stake (PoS), where the selection process is based on computational power or token holdings, PoA provides a more efficient and centralized approach. In the PoA system, a fixed set of validators, often referred to as the "authority nodes," are appointed to participate in block validation. Each validator takes turns proposing new blocks in a predefined order. This rotation ensures equal opportunities for all validators to participate in block creation and maintain network security. To become a validator on CHADCHAIN, participants must hold a minimum of 15,000 C2.0 tokens. This requirement ensures that validators have a significant stake in the network and are incentivized to act in its best interest. Validators are incentivized to perform their duties honestly and efficiently. By contributing to the consensus process, validators earn rewards, typically in the form of transaction fees or native tokens. As active participants in the network, they are motivated to maintain the blockchain's integrity and reputation, as their standing within the ecosystem directly impacts their rewards. Validators in CHADCHAIN play a pivotal role in ensuring the security and efficiency of the network. Through the PoA consensus mechanism, they uphold a transparent and trustworthy environment, making CHADCHAIN a robust and reliable platform for its community. With the requirement of holding 15,000 C2.0 tokens, validators are invested stakeholders, further strengthening the decentralization and inclusivity of the ecosystem. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://chad-2-0.gitbook.io/chad-2.0-white-paper-1/chad-2.0-ecosystem/chadchain/validators.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.