# Running a Validator

Validators are the backbone of the SOMA network. They:

- Run consensus
- Generate targets each epoch
- Audit winning submissions
- Store model weights

In return, validators earn 20% of the network's epoch rewards, distributed proportionally by stake.

## Requirements at a Glance

| Requirement | Details |
|-------------|---------|
| Stake | ≥0.12% of total voting power (scales with total staked) |
| Hardware | 14+ CPU cores, 14+ GB RAM, 250 GB+ NVMe SSD |
| Network | Stable connection with a public IP or DNS hostname |
| Uptime | Validators are expected to maintain high availability |

## Validator Lifecycle

1. Generate validator identity
2. Configure your node (YAML config + genesis blob) and start syncing
3. Secure required stake and join the committee once your node is fully synced
4. Monitor performance, update software, and collect rewards

For background on how consensus and epochs work, see [Network](https://docs.soma.org/concepts/network/). For staking economics, see [Economics](https://docs.soma.org/concepts/economics/).

## Guides

[Node Setup](https://docs.soma.org/guides/validator/node-setup/)

[Join the Network](https://docs.soma.org/guides/validator/join-network/)

[Manage a Validator](https://docs.soma.org/guides/validator/manage/)