Proof of stake
A way to secure a blockchain with locked-up coins instead of mining machines. Ethereum has used it since September 2022.
Proof of stake in more detail
Proof of stake secures a blockchain with locked-up coins instead of mining machines. Ethereum has used it since September 2022.
In proof of work, miners spend electricity to earn the right to add a block. In proof of stake, participants called validators lock up coins as collateral. That collateral is their stake.
Proof of stake cut Ethereum's energy use by about 99.95%. It also removed the need for specialised machines.
All 128 terms · Checked against the lesson's sources on 8 October 2026.
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