Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS)

Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) is a cryptographic proof mechanism for securing blockchains, gaiting the right to add blocks, and preventing Sybil attacks and is a Proof of Stake (PoS) variant. Although often considered a consensus protocol in itself, DPoS, and other similar proof mechanisms, do not determine consensus themselves, although they may help facilitate the process.

DPoS allows owners of a blockchain's native cryptoasset to financially benefit from the staking process without operating a Staking Node, only requiring them to delegate their cryptoasset to a Staking Node. Delegators are typically rewarded a pro-rata share of the Staking Node's staking rewards - though the node operator may choose to take a fee from delegators for providing the service. A Staking Node is therefore incentivized to accept delegators because it allows them to collect fees. For networks with constrained Staking Node sets, having a greater total stake increases their likelihood of being included in the active set.