Validator Count

Definition ∞ Validator count refers to the total number of active participants responsible for verifying transactions and maintaining the security of a proof-of-stake blockchain network. A higher validator count generally indicates greater decentralization and security, as it requires more entities to collude to compromise the network. This metric is a key indicator of a network’s robustness and resistance to censorship. It directly impacts the integrity of the ledger.
Context ∞ News and blockchain analytics frequently highlight the validator count as a critical measure of a proof-of-stake network’s health and decentralization. Discussions often compare different chains based on this metric, assessing their long-term viability and security guarantees. A growing validator count is often seen as a positive sign of network adoption and resilience.