Validator LifeSPAN

In the L1X blockchain network, validators play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of the system. The validator lifecycle encompasses the various stages that validators go through, from their initial selection to their ongoing participation in block validation. This process ensures that only trustworthy and competent participants are chosen to validate transactions and create new blocks. The validator lifecycle involves steps such as staking, selection, validation, and potential penalties or rewards. By understanding the intricacies of the validator lifecycle, stakeholders can gain insight into the inner workings of a PoX blockchain network and appreciate the robustness of its consensus mechanism.

Figure 9: Validator Lifespan

Staking and Selection

During the "In" stage, a validator stakes L1X coins to become an active participant in the network. After one cube, the validator enters the selection queue, awaiting its turn to be eligible for selection as a validator. The time required for selection depends on the network dynamics and the number of nodes ahead in the selection queue, with a minimum waiting period of four cubes.

Active Validator and Block Proposal

As an active validator, the node can validate transactions, contributing to the consensus process and network security. Additionally, a validator may have the opportunity to propose blocks if chosen through a pseudo-random algorithm, further participating in the block creation process. A validator can be active for a maximum of 1000 cubes. At this stage, there are two more possibilities for a validator. A validator may have an insufficient balance or may get slashed due to malicious activity.

Exit

A self-exit occurs when a validator voluntarily chooses to withdraw their staked amount before the completion of the active period i.e., 1000 cubes, signalling their decision to no longer participate in transaction validation. In contrast, an enforced exit can occur for these reasons: completion of the validator's lifespan, insufficient balance, or being slashed for malicious activity. Moreover, to maintain network dynamics, a validator may enforce random exit anytime between 500-1000 cubes.

Exit Waiting Period

Upon initiating the exit process, a validator must wait for five cubes before proceeding. For an unslashed exit, where a validator exits without any penalties, the waiting period is typically between 50 and 100 cubes. However, in the case of a slashed exit, where the validator is penalized for malicious behaviour, the waiting period extends to 4000 cubes.

Withdrawal

The "Out" stage marks the final phase of a validator's lifespan. At this stage, the validator can withdraw their staked amount from the network, concluding their participation in the L1X blockchain as a validator.

Through the above-discussed process, the lifespan of a validator in the L1X blockchain network is defined, offering flexibility for voluntary exits and ensuring network integrity through enforced exits when necessary.