Staking AVAX on the Avalanche network is a straightforward process that can be completed directly within the Core wallet, the native wallet for the Avalanche ecosystem. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of how to delegate or validate your AVAX tokens to help secure the network and earn rewards.
Understanding AVAX Staking Basics
AVAX staking involves committing your tokens to support the operations of the Avalanche network. By staking, you contribute to network security and consensus, and in return, you receive staking rewards. There are two primary ways to stake: delegation and validation.
Delegation allows you to assign your tokens to an existing validator. The minimum requirement for delegation is 25 AVAX. Validation involves running your own validator node, which requires a minimum of 2000 AVAX.
Both methods require you to choose a staking duration, which can affect your reward rate. It's important to note that staked tokens are locked for the chosen duration and cannot be transferred until the staking period ends.
Step-by-Step Guide to Staking AVAX in Core
The Core wallet is available in both web and mobile versions, offering a user-friendly interface for managing your AVAX assets and staking operations.
How to Delegate AVAX (Minimum 25 AVAX)
Delegating is the simpler option for most users, as it doesn't require running your own infrastructure.
On Core Web:
- Log in to your Core web wallet.
- Navigate to the "Stake" section from the main menu.
- Select the "Delegate" option.
- Choose a validator from the list. You can review their performance metrics, fee structure, and reliability.
- Enter the amount of AVAX you wish to delegate and select your staking duration.
- Review the details, confirm the transaction, and wait for it to be processed on the network.
On Core Mobile:
- Open the Core app on your mobile device.
- Tap on the "Stake" icon.
- Follow the in-app instructions to select a validator, amount, and staking period.
- Confirm the transaction to complete the delegation.
👉 Explore the complete staking guide
How to Validate AVAX (Minimum 2000 AVAX)
Becoming a validator is a more advanced option that requires a significant technical commitment and a larger amount of AVAX.
On Core Web:
- Access your Core web wallet and go to the "Stake" section.
- Select "Validate" to begin the process.
- The interface will guide you through the necessary steps to set up your validator node, including specifying your reward address and staking parameters.
- You will need to ensure your node meets the technical requirements and remains online for the duration of the staking period to avoid penalties.
Currently, the validation process is primarily supported on the web version of Core for a more comprehensive setup experience.
Key Differences Between Core Mobile and Core Web Staking
It's important to know that the staking experience differs between the Core mobile app and the Core web platform.
- Interface and Flow: The steps and visual presentation for selecting validators and confirming stakes are optimized for their respective devices, leading to a different user journey.
- Information Display: The web interface may provide more detailed data and advanced options for analyzing validators, while the mobile app focuses on a streamlined, essential process.
- Functionality: As of now, initiating a validation node is only available on Core web, making it the platform of choice for users looking to become validators.
For a detailed side-by-side comparison of the features and capabilities, it is recommended to review official platform documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum amount of AVAX required to stake?
To delegate your AVAX to a validator, you need a minimum of 25 tokens. If you want to run your own validator node, the minimum requirement is 2000 AVAX.
Can I unstake my AVAX before the staking period ends?
No, once you stake your AVAX, it is locked for the entire duration of the staking period you selected. You will not be able to transfer or trade these tokens until the lock-up period expires and the funds are released back to your wallet.
How are staking rewards calculated?
Rewards are calculated based on several factors, including the amount staked, the length of the staking period, and the fee percentage charged by the validator (if you are delegating). Generally, longer staking periods and higher amounts can lead to higher reward rates.
Is staking AVAX safe?
Staking is a native function of the Avalanche network and is generally considered safe. However, as with any financial activity, there are inherent risks. These include the volatility of the AVAX token price and the risk of a validator getting slashed (penalized) for misbehavior, which could slightly impact delegators' rewards. It is crucial to choose reputable validators.
What is the difference between the X, P, and C-Chains?
The Avalanche network consists of three built-in blockchains: the Exchange Chain (X-Chain) for creating and trading assets, the Platform Chain (P-Chain) for coordinating validators and staking, and the Contract Chain (C-Chain) for hosting smart contracts. Staking operations are performed on the P-Chain.
Where can I get more help if I have issues with staking?
For additional support, you can consult the extensive knowledge base articles available in the Avalanche support center. For specific issues, you can often contact support directly through a chat function on the official website.