# The Validators The validators are a unique part of the SecureChain ecosystem. They are responsible for producing the blocks in the blockchain. Anyone can become a validator by fulfilling its requirements. The validators earn percentage of the transaction fee paid by the users. Learn more about this in [consensus](/developer-guide/consensus.md) section. ## Becoming a validator To become a validator, one has to fulfil its requirements, such as setting up the necessary node servers, staking the coins, etc. The main to keep in mind is that the validator nodes should be kept always online. If the validator goes offline, then it can get punished and its staking can be slashed. ## --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.securechain.ai/governance/the-validators.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.