Bigfoot

Network roles

Become a validator.

Validators keep the network's shared record honest. Each one runs a node that confirms new records and finalizes them, together with the other validators.

The role

What it is, and what it isn't.

Is

  • An operator running a node in validator mode, on Linux, that takes part in finalizing the network's record.
  • A role the network credits in BFT for finalizing new posts and replies.

Isn't

  • An editor. Validators confirm the record and never change what it says.
  • A governance member. Validators do not vote on who joins.

Role guide

Voluntary, with responsibilities.

Validating is voluntary, and a validator node has to stay online and signing. The network credits validators BFT for finalizing new posts and replies. The guide covers maintenance, upgrades, moving to new hardware, and how to step down.

Read the validator guide

Your thumbprint

Create your validator key with the Bigfoot CLI.

Run bigfoot-node create-key and copy the thumbprint it reports. The Bigfoot CLI runs on Linux and macOS. If you are admitted, your validator node starts on Linux with that key and joins the validators.

Apply

Apply as a validator.

Governance members read every application themselves. Tell them why you want this role and how you would help Bigfoot succeed in it. Your email address stays with us.

Please make sure your thumbprint is accurate before submitting. For help finding it, see Find your thumbprint.

While you hold a network role, you'll receive service emails about Bigfoot, such as network updates and software patches. They're required while you hold the role and aren't marketing.

Looking for a different role?

See every way to help run Bigfoot, what each role involves, and who can take it.

See all network roles