Steps for Validator Setup

Step 1: Understand the Role of a Validator: What is a Validator? Validators are special participants in the blockchain network responsible for verifying transactions and creating new blocks. They play a crucial role in maintaining the network's security and integrity.

Step 2: Check Your Hardware and Internet Requirements Hardware Requirements: Make sure you have a computer with the recommended specifications for running a full node. This usually includes a modern processor, sufficient RAM (8GB or more), and enough hard drive space to store the blockchain (500GB or more).

Internet Connection: A stable and fast internet connection is vital for a validator. You'll need an uptime of 99% or higher to be effective and avoid penalties.

Setting Up Your QI Blockchain Node

Step 3: Open Your Terminal or Command Prompt Windows Users: Search for "CMD" or "Command Prompt" in your start menu and open it. macOS/Linux Users: Search for "Terminal" in your applications and open it.

Step 4: Install Git : Install Git with the command: sudo apt-get install git -y. This tool is required to clone the QI Blockchain binaries.

Step 5: Update Your Package List : Keep your system updated by running: sudo apt-get update.

Step 6: Clone the QI Blockchain Binaries : Download the necessary files with: git clone https://github.com/QIBlockchain/qi-blockchain-binaries.

Step 7: Change to the Cloned Directory : Access the downloaded files by typing: cd qi-blockchain-binaries.

Step 8: Initialize Blockchain Secrets : Set up your node's security with: ./qichain secrets init --data-dir test-chain-1

Step 9: Start Your Node : Connect and run your node using: ./qichain server --data-dir ./test-chain-1 --chain genesis.json --grpc-address :10000 --libp2p 172.16.0.228:10001 --jsonrpc 172.16.0.228:10002 --seal --block-time

Step 10: Verify Node Operation: Ensure there are no errors in the terminal. No news is good news here!

Becoming a Validator

Step 11: Set Up a Wallet & Acquire QIE Tokens

If you haven’t already, set up your QI Blockchain wallet and acquire at least 50,000 QIE tokens through a cryptocurrency exchange.

Step 12: Stake Your QIE Tokens

Navigate to the staking interface in your node or wallet and stake a minimum of 50,000 QIE to qualify as a validator.

Navigate to the Validator Registration Website Go to the Validator Portal: Open your web browser and visit https://validator.qiblockchain.online/. This is the official platform where you can register and manage your validator node.

Initiate the Staking Process Click on "Stake": On the website, look for the "Stake" button and click on it. This action will take you to the page where you can begin the registration and staking process for your node.

Provide Node Information Enter Your Node's RPC URL: You'll need to enter the RPC (Remote Procedure Call) URL of your node. The RPC URL is how the staking platform communicates with your node, so ensure it's entered correctly.

Enter Your Node's Public Key: Your node's public key is required for identification and security purposes. Make sure to enter it accurately.

Complete the Staking Enter Your Node's Private Key: Carefully enter your node’s private key. This key is crucial for signing transactions and must be kept secure at all times.

Provide the RPC URL Again: Re-enter your node’s RPC URL for confirmation. Specify the Stake Amount: Decide on the amount of QIE you wish to stake. Remember, you need to stake a minimum of 50,000 QIE to qualify as a validator.

Finalize Staking: After double-checking all the information you've entered, click on the "Stake" button again to submit your stake and complete the registration process.

Wait for Activation Activation Process: Once you've submitted your stake, there might be a waiting period for your node to be approved and activated as a validator. The specific details of this process can vary, so refer to any guidance provided on the QI Blockchain validator portal or official documentation.