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.