How to become a Delegator

Step-by-Step Guide

Delegators are integral to the Cintara DPoS (Delegated Proof-of-Stake) ecosystem, contributing to the security and governance of the network by staking CINT tokens with validators. This document outlines the process, requirements, and responsibilities for becoming a delegator.

1. Prerequisites

1.1 Technical Requirements

Component	Minimum Requirement	Recommended for Mainnet
CPU	4+ cores	8+ cores
RAM	8GB	16GB+
Storage	500GB SSD	1TB+ SSD
Network	Stable internet with 100+ Mbps	High reliability preferred
Operating System	Ubuntu 20.04 LTS & Ubuntu 22.04 LTS	Ubuntu 20.04 LTS & Ubuntu 22.04 LTS

1.2 Financial Requirements (Primarily for Validators)

• Self-Stake: Minimum of 10,000 CINT tokens to register as a validator

• Operational Costs: Budget for server hosting, tools, and maintenance

• Security Buffer: Additional CINT tokens to protect against potential slashing events

1.3 Technical Knowledge

• Basic understanding of blockchain and DPoS consensus

• Familiarity with network administration and security best practices

2. Wallet Setup

2.1 Create or Connect a Wallet

• Use a supported Cintara-compatible wallet such as:

  • MetaMask with custom RPC configuration

  • Other officially supported web wallets(in future if we implement)

2.2 Ensure CINT Token Balance

• Hold a minimum of 100 CINT tokens in your wallet to initiate delegation.

3. Delegation Basics

3.1 Role of Delegators

• Delegators do not run validator nodes.

• They support network security by staking CINT tokens with trusted validators.

3.2 Key Delegation Metrics

Term	Description
Stake Amount	Total CINT tokens staked with a validator; a higher stake indicates reliability
Commission Rate	Percentage of rewards retained by the validator before distribution
Rewards	Proportional staking rewards are earned based on validator performance
Unbonding Period	Time (e.g., 24 hours) CINT tokens remain locked after initiating withdrawal

4. Understanding Validator Responsibilities

Validators are responsible for maintaining the Cintara blockchain. Key functions include:

• Block Production: Proposing and creating new blocks

• Transaction Validation: Verifying transactions within blocks

• Network Consensus: Participating in the DPoS mechanism

• Governance Participation: Voting on protocol upgrades and changes

5. Steps to Become a Delegator

5.1 Access the Delegator Application

1. Visit the official Cintara Delegator Application.

2. Log In using a supported wallet like MetaMask (via mnemonic phrase).

3. Click on the “Delegate More” option to begin the delegation process.

   

5.2 Select a Validator

1. Navigate to the Validator List page.

2. Review and compare validators based on the following metrics:

Metric	Description
Total Stake	Combined self-stake and delegated stake
Commission Rate	Validator’s fee before reward distribution
Self Stake	Indicates popularity and community trust
Status	Indicates the activeness

1. Select a validator with high uptime, reasonable commission, and positive community standing.

2. By clicking on their Validator address

5.3 Delegate CINT Tokens

1. Upon clicking the Validator address, click the “Delegate” button next to your selected validator.

1. Enter the amount of CINT tokens to stake (Amount >100.00001 CINT ).

2. Enter your mnemonic phrase to authorize.

3. Click "Sign & Submit" to confirm.

4. After confirmation, your tokens will be bonded with the validator.

5.4 Monitor Staking Rewards and Validator Performance

• Use the Delegator App to:

  • Track accrued staking rewards.

  • Monitor the validator’s commission rate and status.

5.5 Re-Delegate or Unbond

• If dissatisfied with a validator’s performance:

  • Use the Re-delegate function to move your stake to another validator.

• To exit staking:

  • Use the Unbond function to initiate the unbonding process.

  • Tokens will be locked during the unbonding period (e.g., 24 hours), after which they become available in your wallet.

6. Ongoing Responsibilities of Delegators

6.1 Choosing Validators Wisely

• Perform due diligence before delegating.

• Avoid validators with:

  • Poor uptime history

  • Excessive commission fees

  • Negative reputation or feedback from the community

6.2 Participate in Governance

• Use staked CINT tokens to vote on governance proposals.

• Your votes help decide:

  • Network upgrades

  • Parameter changes

  • Community initiatives

6.3 Stay Informed and Proactive

• Periodically check the performance of your chosen validator.

• Re-delegate as needed to maintain optimal returns.

• Maintain the security of your wallet and remain aware of potential slashing risks.

7. Conclusion and Best Practices

Becoming a delegator on Cintara allows you to:

• Earn passive income through staking rewards

• Strengthen the Cintara blockchain’s decentralization and security

• Actively participate in protocol governance

Best Practices:

• Always use official Cintara tools and applications.

• Verify validator authenticity before delegation.

• Stay updated with network announcements and governance proposals.