Validator
A participant that checks or attests to network activity under a staking-based design.
Glossary of network terms
Digital asset infrastructure combines computing, cryptography, governance and operations. This glossary gives each term a plain-language starting point while recognising that definitions can vary by protocol.
Use the terms as a reading aid, not as a recommendation. Harmony is an educational publication based at 10 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea 06703, phone +82-2-758-3942.
Core vocabulary
Hash rate
A measure of computational attempts over a defined period.
Delegation
An action that assigns participation weight to a validator under protocol rules.
Custody
The arrangement for controlling access to assets and signing credentials.
Node
Software that communicates with a network and may store, verify or relay data.
Finality
A protocol’s method for treating an activity record as settled under stated conditions.
- Always check the term’s protocol-specific definition.
- Distinguish a technical role from a commercial service.
- Record the date when a definition depends on versioned rules.
Terms in context
| Term | Related idea | Question to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Firmware | Hardware control | Which version and settings? |
| Slashing | Validator penalties | What events trigger it? |
| Pool | Mining coordination | How is work and accounting handled? |
How to use a definition
- Find the term in the source document.
- Identify the network and version.
- Check whether the term describes a rule, role, metric or service.
- Read the surrounding limitations before drawing a conclusion.
Terms become clearer when connected to a mechanism. A validator is not simply a label; its responsibilities, software, keys and possible responses depend on the protocol.
Suggest a term
“Good vocabulary lets readers ask precise questions.”
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