# Node validators

Node validators are the backbone of Constellation Network. They run the infrastructure that processes transactions, secures the network, and validates data, ensuring that Constellation remains scalable, decentralized, and trustless.

Validators don’t mine blocks like in traditional blockchains. Instead, they reach agreement (consensus) on the network’s state by validating snapshots—bundles of transactions and data—before storing them on the Hypergraph.

In return for their work, validators earn DAG rewards based on their contributions to the network.

## **What Do Node Validators Do?**

### **Process Transactions & Secure the Network**

Validators ensure that all transactions and data submitted to the network are valid and trustworthy before they are permanently recorded.

### **Earn Rewards in DAG**

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="/files/ij9sCNLRjb9lwPqeHmhD" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

Validators are compensated in DAG for their role in securing the network and processing transactions. Rewards are distributed from network emissions and in the future from metagraph fees.

Validators can also get extra rewards through delegation fees from delegated DAG to their node.

{% hint style="info" %}
Learn more about how validators can earn more DAG through [Delegating Staking](#delegators-and-validators-how-they-work-together).
{% endhint %}

## **Types of Validators in Constellation Network**

Validators operate at different levels, depending on their role in the ecosystem:

| **Validator Type**         | **Role**                                                                      |
| -------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Global L0 Validator**    | Secures the Hypergraph, processes snapshots, and maintains network consensus. |
| **Metagraph L0 Validator** | Validates and submits metagraph-specific snapshots to the Global L0.          |
| **Metagraph L1 Validator** | Processes transactions and data within a specific metagraph.                  |

A single node can participate in multiple layers, earning rewards from both the Global L0 and individual metagraphs.

## **Delegators & Validators: How They Work Together**

Not everyone needs to run their own validator to participate!

Users who hold DAG can delegate their tokens to a validator to:

* Support network security.
* Earn incentives.
* Help determine which validators receive more network emissions.

Validators, in turn, earn a percentage of the rewards from their delegators, creating an incentive for them to operate efficiently and attract delegations.

## **Why Become a Validator?**

* Earn DAG.
* Play a key role in securing a decentralized network.
* Support metagraphs and innovation on Constellation.

Whether you want to run your own node or delegate your DAG, validators are critical to the success of Constellation Network.


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