Staking allows you to earn rewards by locking up your crypto to support the operations of a proof‑of‑stake (PoS) network. Unlike mining, staking doesn’t require expensive hardware. Instead, you delegate or deposit tokens to validators who secure the network, and in return you receive a share of the block rewards. Popular PoS coins include Ethereum, Cardano and Solana.
To start staking, choose a staking method: some exchanges like Coinbase and Kraken offer custodial staking services, which handle the technical details but take a commission on rewards. Alternatively, you can stake directly using a wallet that supports delegation, such as Yoroi for Cardano or Phantom for Solana. Research the annual percentage yield (APY) offered by different validators and consider factors like uptime, fees and reputation.
Remember that staking locks your funds for a set period. While staked, you may not be able to sell or transfer your tokens immediately. Also, rewards are not guaranteed and depend on network performance. Diversify your staked assets and avoid putting all of your holdings in a single validator. With the right strategy, staking can provide a relatively steady stream of passive income while helping to secure the blockchain you support.