Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

1. Ethereum Client – Stader supports clients like Geth, Besu, and Nethermind. For this guide, I’ll use Geth as an example.
2. Stader Node Software – You will need to install Stader’s node software.
3. Validator Keys – The private keys of the Ethereum validators you plan to use.
4. System Requirements – Ensure your server has enough resources. A minimum of 4GB of RAM and at least 200GB of storage is typically recommended for running an Ethereum node.

Step 1: Install and Set Up Ethereum Client (e.g., Geth)

1. Install Geth:

   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install software-properties-common
   sudo add-apt-repository ppa:ethereum/ethereum
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install geth
   
   

2. Sync Ethereum Network: You need to sync the Ethereum network with your Geth client. You can do this by running a full or archive node. For the purpose of staking, a full node should be sufficient.

   To start syncing, use the following command:

   geth --syncmode "fast" --http --http.addr "0.0.0.0" --http.api "eth,web3,debug,personal,miner"
   
   

   • This will start the Geth client, sync with the Ethereum network, and allow external access to the RPC API.

3. Verify Syncing: You can check your node’s sync status using:

   geth attach
   > eth.syncing
   
   

   If the result is false, your node is fully synced.

Step 2: Install Stader Node Software

1. Download and Install Stader Node Software: To operate a validator node with Stader, you will need to install their node software. Typically, you’ll find a GitHub repository or a release page for the software.

   You can clone the repository:

   git clone <https://github.com/stader-labs/ethereum-node-operator.git>
   cd ethereum-node-operator
   
   

2. Install Dependencies: The software may have dependencies that need to be installed, such as Node.js or Python libraries. Install any required dependencies listed in the README.

   For example:

   npm install
   
   

Step 3: Node Registration with Stader

1. Register Your Node: Stader uses a registration process to allow node operators to register their node to participate in the staking pool. This process might involve using an API or a specific web interface.

   You might need to:

   • Set up a wallet (e.g., MetaMask or Hardware Wallet) for staking and receiving rewards.
   • Register your Ethereum validator node with Stader’s registration service.
   • Generate a registration key or token via Stader’s web interface or API.