# Validator and Non-Validator Nodes

Validator nodes are required to:

• actively participate in consensus (that is they propose new blocks and vote on them),
• be always online,
• post collateral.

However, none of this is necessary to run a non-validator node. Simply put, non-validator nodes just verify the new blocks and keep up with the consensus protocol. Thus, joining as a non-validator is much simpler.

# How to Run a Non-Validator Node

Follow the instructions at Extdev jump start to spin up your own non-validator node.