What is proof-of-stake?

Proof-of-Stake (PoS) is a consensus mechanism used in blockchain networks to validate transactions, create new blocks, and maintain the integrity of the blockchain. In a PoS system, validators or "stakers" are chosen based on the number of tokens they hold and are willing to "stake" or lock up as collateral.

Rather than competing to solve a complex mathematical puzzle like in Proof-of-Work (PoW) systems, PoS validators are selected to create a new block based on their stake in the network. This means that validators with a larger stake have a higher probability of being chosen to create the next block. Because validators put up stake as collateral, they have a financial incentive to ensure that they do not engage in malicious behavior that would harm the network and potentially result in losing their staked tokens.

In addition to being more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to PoW systems, PoS has several benefits. PoS eliminates the need for specialized hardware required for PoW mining, making it more accessible to individual users. It also incentivizes token holders to hold onto their tokens rather than sell them, which can help stabilize the value of the token.

Ethereum is one of the major blockchains in the process of transitioning from PoW to PoS consensus mechanisms with its Ethereum 2.0 upgrade. Other blockchain projects, such as Cardano and Polkadot, use PoS as their primary consensus mechanism.

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