> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.qie.digital/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.qie.digital/what-are-validators/validator-lifecycle-your-journey-on-qie.md).

# 🔄 Validator Lifecycle: Your Journey on QIE

#### 1. 🧱 Set Up Your Node

Prepare your hardware and infrastructure. Install the QIE software and configure your node to connect to the network.

#### 2. 📝 Register as a Validator

Submit your validator details on-chain, including your public key, commission rate, and self-stake.

#### 3. ✅ Start Validating Blocks

Once registered, begin proposing and validating blocks to help secure the network.

#### 4. 🤝 Receive Delegations

Attract delegators who stake their QIE coins with you, increasing your total voting power and rewards.

#### 5. 💸 Distribute Rewards

Earn block rewards, transaction fees, and commissions. Share rewards with your delegators transparently.

#### 6. 🗳️ Participate in Governance

Vote on proposals that affect the network’s future — upgrades, parameter changes, halving, and more.

#### 7. 🔚 Exit or Unbond (Optional)

If you decide to step down, you can unbond your stake after the unbonding period and cease validating.

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#### ⚠️ Key to Success: Uptime & Trust

Maintaining **high uptime** and **good reputation** is essential to stay in the active validator set and keep earning rewards. Validators with poor performance risk jailing or slashing penalties.

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This lifecycle reflects the ongoing commitment and opportunity of being a QIE validator — securing the network while earning rewards and influencing the blockchain’s future.