Qubes & Validators

Overview

In traditional blockchain networks, running a full node or participating in validation often requires significant computational resources, limiting participation to a few powerful entities. Cubiq Network overcomes this by introducing "Qubes" – lightweight mobile nodes that can act as validators.

This innovative approach, powered by zero-knowledge proofs, allows billions of mobile devices to participate in securing and decentralizing the network, making Cubiq truly mobile-native.

What are Qubes?

A Qube is a Cubiq mobile application instance running on a user's smartphone (Android or iOS) that performs critical validation tasks for the network. Unlike traditional full nodes, Qubes do not store the entire blockchain history or re-execute every transaction. Instead, they:

• Verify Zero-Knowledge Proofs: Qubes download compact zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) generated by Cloud Provers and cryptographically verify them using optimized WASM verifiers. This ensures the integrity of transactions and state transitions with minimal computational overhead.
• Participate in Consensus: Qubes that have staked QUBE tokens can participate in the Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) consensus mechanism, voting on the validity of new blocks.
• Propagate Blocks: They participate in a gossip-based peer-to-peer network to efficiently propagate new blocks and transaction information.

Role of Validators

Validators (Qubes with staked tokens) play a crucial role in maintaining the security and integrity of the Cubiq Network. Their responsibilities include:

• Block Proposal: A selected validator proposes a new block containing a batch of transactions and their corresponding zero-knowledge proof.
• Proof Verification: All active validators verify the ZKP associated with the proposed block to ensure the validity of the transactions.
• Consensus Voting: Validators vote on the proposed block. Once a supermajority (2/3+) of the staked QUBE tokens vote in favor, the block is finalized.
• Network Participation: Maintaining an active Qube client and participating in the peer-to-peer network.

Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS)

Cubiq Network utilizes a lightweight Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) consensus mechanism, optimized for mobile participation.

How DPoS Works in Cubiq

• Delegation: QUBE token holders can "delegate" their stake to a validator (Qube) of their choice. This allows smaller token holders to participate in consensus without running a Qube themselves.
• Validator Selection: A set of active validators are chosen based on their total delegated stake. These validators are responsible for proposing and validating blocks.
• Voting: Active validators vote on proposed blocks. The weight of their vote is proportional to their total staked and delegated QUBE.
• Block Finality: Blocks achieve instant finality once a 2/3+ supermajority of staked tokens (via their delegated validators) confirm its validity.

Becoming a Validator

To become an active validator (Qube) on the Cubiq Network, you will need to:

• Run the Cubiq App: Install and keep the Cubiq mobile application running on your device.
• Meet Minimum Stake: Hold and stake a minimum amount of QUBE tokens (details on minimum stake will be announced).
• Maintain Uptime: Ensure your Qube is consistently online and connected to the network to participate in block validation.
• Network Requirements: Your device will need a stable internet connection.

Validator Onboarding Process

A detailed guide for onboarding as a validator, including technical setup and best practices, will be provided closer to mainnet launch.