What Is a Validator?

A validator is a key participant responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of the Enjin Relaychain. Validators perform essential duties such as producing and finalizing blocks. For their work, they earn rewards, which can be distributed in part or whole to nominators who support them.

Because validators safeguard the network, it is essential to nominate those who operate responsibly and in the network’s best interest.

Why Validator Selection Matters

Part of creating a nomination pool is selecting validators. The validators chosen directly affect:

• Network security – Validators uphold the health and integrity of the blockchain.

• Staking reliability – Active, well-performing validators help ensure consistent returns.

• Pool rewards – Earnings depend not only on commission rates but also on validator performance.

Selecting the right validators is therefore one of the most important decisions in setting up a pool.

Understanding Validator Ratings

Each validator is assigned a rating (A - F). This rating reflects a validator’s overall reliability over a period of time.

How the Grading System Works

• Validators begin from a neutral starting point.

• Positive behaviour—such as maintaining uptime, following specifications, and acting responsibly in the network’s interest—earns a higher grade.

• Negative or harmful behaviour—such as operating inappropriately, going offline, or acting against the network’s best interest—results in harsher grading penalties.

• After poor behaviour, a validator must demonstrate consistent good operation over time to restore a positive grade.

A rating is earned, not permanent. Even a high-graded validator can lose standing if operations degrade or turn harmful.

What the Ratings Represent

Ratings are determined by technical and operational indicators, including:

• Uptime – How consistently the validator remains online and active.

• Hardware quality – Stability and reliability of the validator’s infrastructure.

• Historical performance – Track record of producing blocks and avoiding penalties.

These measures provide a simplified, high-level score of validator reliability.

Why Ratings Matter

Validator performance has a direct impact on staking rewards:

• Validators with poor uptime or unstable infrastructure may miss block production, reducing rewards for their nominators.

• Extended downtime can lead to validators being forcefully chilled or even slashed, both of which negatively impact rewards.

• Higher-rated validators (for example, those rated “A”) are generally more consistent, giving stronger confidence in steady returns.

How to Use Ratings When Choosing Validators

When setting up or managing a nomination pool:

• Prioritize higher-rated validators – They tend to be more reliable and less risky for long-term staking.

• Diversify nominations – Spread nominations across multiple well-rated validators to reduce risk exposure.

• Balance performance and commission – Strong ratings are valuable, but commission levels also influence overall rewards.

Need More Help?

For additional support, visit Enjin Support.